British Columbia's cost to host seven FIFA World Cup games in Vancouver has climbed to as much as $624 million, officials revealed Tuesday, marking the latest increase in a budget that has more than doubled since the province won the hosting bid in 2022.
The updated gross hosting costs range between $532 million and $624 million, according to the Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport Ministry. However, officials maintain the net cost to taxpayers remains within previous projections of $85 million to $145 million after accounting for revenues and federal contributions.
The latest figures represent another jump from 2024 estimates of $483 million to $581 million1. When Vancouver was selected as a host city in March 2022, the provincial government projected costs between $240 million and $260 million for five games2. The province now expects to host seven matches at B.C. Place Stadium starting June 13, 2026.
"Gross cost estimates increased as plans developed this year, particularly for safety and security and transportation," the province said in Tuesday's release3.
The City of Vancouver's projected costs will be between $261 million and $281 million, a modest increase from the $246 million to $276 million estimated in April 20244. Additional costs include $171 million to $181 million for B.C. Place renovations and $54 million to $64 million for public services like transportation and health care4.
Officials continue to tout economic benefits that they say will far outweigh the costs. FIFA's assessment projects the tournament could contribute $1.7 billion in economic benefits for B.C., including a $980-million increase to GDP and $610 million in labour income12.
The province estimates more than one million additional out-of-province visitors will visit B.C. before 2031, generating more than $1 billion in visitor spending and creating 18,000 jobs3.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said the city's direct costs "remain on track, with no major changes from 2024's budget projections"1.
Public support for the tournament remains tepid. A July 2024 Angus Reid Institute poll found 60 per cent of B.C. residents believe hosting the World Cup will be "not worth it" for Vancouver, with only 21 per cent disagreeing1.
Opposition critics have called for greater transparency about agreements with FIFA. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation previously criticized the "skyrocketing costs," with B.C. director Carson Binda saying in 2024 that officials had "scored a financial own-goal"2.
"We're looking forward to showcasing unforgettable B.C. experiences and inspiring visitors to keep returning," said Walt Judas, CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of B.C.3
