Along with the United States and Mexico, Canada is thrilled to be hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament’s largest edition to date will put world champions Argentina against 47 other nations as they defend their title.Twelve host venues have been chosen from the three countries, including Canada’s BC Place Stadium, home of the Vancouver Whitecaps and BC Lions. Two of the seven matches it will host during the tournament will include the Canadian team.
Vancouver is honored to be one of the FIFA World Cup 2026 host cities! It has everything, whether you’re a passionate soccer fan or simply searching for an exciting destination. Watch the greatest soccer matches in the world while taking in the city’s rich culture, delicious food, and breathtaking surroundings. Whether you are a World Cup fan hoping to see games at the stadium or just want to feel the vibe when you are in British Columbia, this guide is for you. We have gathered all the information you need before visiting the World Cup matches in Vancouver.
Vancouver’s 7 World Cup Matches — Dates, Stages & Highlights
Since hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics, Vancouver has been a major player in the world of sports for almost ten years. Additionally, it has a track record of successfully hosting important soccer events, like the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup final in Vancouver. The Vancouver World Cup matches will be held at BC Place, a venue right in the heart of downtown.
Vancouver will host seven matches, including two of Canada’s group matches, at the magnificent BC Place Vancouver, which has a retractable roof and can hold 54,000 spectators. In addition to a Round of 32 and a Round of 16 knockout game, Vancouver will host five group stage matches, including two that will include Canadian Team:
- Saturday, 13 June – Match 6, Group Stage;
- Thursday, 18 June – Match 27, Group Stage (Canada game two);
- Sunday, 21 June – Match 40, Group Stage;
- Wednesday, 24 June – Match 51, Group Stage (Canada game three);
- Friday, 26 June – Match 64, Group Stage
- Thursday, 2 July – Match 85, Round of 32
- Tuesday, 7 July – Match 96, Round of 16
Tickets & Access
The World Cup ticket sales schedule is very important. FIFA typically starts ticket sales nine to twelve months prior to the event’s start date. For the 2026 World Cup, the first stage of the lottery ended in September 2025. Fans had a chance to be chosen to take part in the first wave by registering on the official FIFA website and acquiring a FIFA ID.
Phase Two of Presale Draw enrollment period is October 27–31, 2025, and the sales begin Mid-November until early December. Phase Three begins on December 5, 2025, following the group stage draw.
FIFA offer several purchasing options to meet the needs of different categories of fans:
- By match – tickets for specific games;
- By team – your favorite team’s entire journey;
- By stadium – games taking place at a specific arena.
General tickets for World Cup Vancouver matches range from $100 to $850 CAD depending on the category and match type:
- Group Stage $100 to $575 CAD,
- Canada Game 2 and 3 price is $250 – $650 CAD,
- Round of 32 – $175 – $600 CAD,
- Round of 16 tickets will cost you $300 – $900 accordingly.
Also, it is possible to purchase hospitality tickets which include exclusive access to venues, access to lounges and other premium offers. Such service prices start from $2500 CAD.
Where to Stay & What to Do
More than just a sporting event, the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Vancouver is expected to be a cultural celebration, an unforgettable chance, and an opportunity to witness one of the most stunning cities on earth at its finest. Vancouver will captivate you with its international cuisine, Stanley Park, BC Place Stadium, and memorable fan experiences.
Top neighborhoods for fans: Downtown, Yaletown, Mount Pleasant
- Downtown
If you’re a first-time visitor, there’s nothing better than lodging in the center of Downtown Vancouver. Minutes away is the best the city has to offer. Make sure to visit the iconic Vancouver Art Gallery, Pacific Centre Mall, Robson Street, and Alberni Street. When the sun sets, this is the place to be because of the nearby theaters and nightclubs. From the Downtown, you have excellent access to transit, including the airport. Additionally, Gastown, the West End, and Yaletown are all within a short stroll. - Yaletown
Yaletown maintains its warehouse heritage while combining brick and glass in a polished manner. Locals bring a blanket to David Lam Park during golden hour, the Seawall winds around False Creek, and patios overlook Hamilton and Mainland. Airport days are simple because the Canada Line stops nearby. If you choose to stay in Yaletown, be prepared to spend a little more because the once-heritage neighborhood has become much more modern. However, it boasts some of downtown’s greatest dining options. The entertainment area and some of the best restaurants in the city are both easily accessible on foot. - Mount Pleasant
There are lots of adorable cafes, unique shops, and amazing street art in this hip neighborhood. Following in the footsteps of Vancouver’s artisan breweries, this part of the city boasts some fantastic beer. The most visited neighboring attraction is Science World. Long walks and chilled craft beer are ideal at Olympic Village and along its seaside seawall. It is easily reachable by bus or Skytrain, even if it is outside of the downtown center.
Accommodation
City officials have been constructing new hotels and expanding beds for football fans in preparation for the 2026 World Cup matches Vancouver. There will be short-term rentals like VRBO and Airbnb, but these will also fill up quickly. Keep in mind that accommodations for the World Cup in Vancouver tend to be more costly. Hotels may accommodate a variety of travel budgets on a typical day, but during the 2026 World Cup, Downtown and stadium-adjacent locations will likely cost more. During the summer, inexpensive accommodations in Vancouver can cost anything from $200 to $500 CAD. Communities like Burnaby, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, and Richmond will make more sense for 2026 World Cup tourists on a tight budget.
What to do between matches
The attractions in Vancouver are made to provide a range of experiences so that not only tourists but also football fans may enjoy their time.
- A must-see is Granville Island & Market, where you can taste regional specialties, fresh food, and handcrafted goods.
- From Vancouver Lookout you may take in expansive views of the harbor, mountains, and city skyline.
- River Rock Casino Resort provides the ideal fusion of leisure, gaming, and entertainment. Players can enjoy no wager casino Canada with numerous promotions for new users and bonuses for loyal players with high chances to enjoy the game and to win.
- Stanley Park is an urban paradise that provides a wide range of activities from strolling or cycling to visiting lush gardens, charming beaches, and the fascinating Vancouver Aquarium.
- Grouse Grind in North Vancouver, is a 3km track on Grouse Mountain that is almost vertical. When you get to the top of the Grind, you can choose to descend in the brand-new Blue Grouse Gondola.
- Vancouver’s Richmond Night Market is a fascinating gathering that blends cuisine, entertainment, art, and culture.
Fan Experience in the City
According to city officials, Hastings Park will host Vancouver’s official FIFA Fan Festival for the 2026 World Cup from June 11 to July 19. With matches screened on a large screen within the soon-to-be-constructed Freedom Mobile Arch Amphitheatre, it will serve as a key point for World Cup spectators to gather and watch sports. It can accommodate 10,000 people and broadcast every game. Additionally, there will probably be interactive sports exhibits, art installations, live music, and cultural performances.The Fan Festivals are always free and suitable for families. Anticipate sizable crowds at every game, but particularly when Canada is playing.
The Buzz & Local Impact
Although it will potentially cause problems like traffic, noise, and a possible lack of lodging, Vancouver’s economy is predicted to benefit greatly from hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026, with visitor spending of over $1 billion. In order to handle the inflow of tourists and the event itself, the city will need to enhance its infrastructure and make local preparations for the seven matches and FIFA Congress. Through initiatives like the FIFA Fan Festival and other soccer-themed events, the city hopes to engage local companies and citizens.
On the other hand, like the 2010 Olympics, the World Cup is anticipated to inspire a new generation of athletes and spectators and create a lasting legacy in Vancouver.
Quick FAQs
- How many matches will be in Vancouver?
Vancouver is confirmed to host 7 matches. - Will Team Canada play in Vancouver?
Yes. Team Canada will play two group-stage matches at BC Place — Match 27 on June 18 and Match 51 on June 24, 2026. - Can I still get tickets after general sale?
Yes. Tickets may be available through official FIFA resale platforms or verified resellers closer to the event. - How can I get to the BC Place?
Take the SkyTrain to Stadium–Chinatown or Yaletown–Roundhouse stations, or use bus routes 17, 19, or N8. The stadium is within easy walking distance from downtown. - What’s the weather like in June/July?
Expect warm summer temperatures between 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F).
After games, is it safe to go downtown at night?
In general, Vancouver is safe, and during the tournament, there will be more security.
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