FIFA in Vancouver

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FIFA is transforming Vancouver.

In 2022 Vancouver was officially selected to be part of the Canadian cities that would host some of the 2026 World Cup games. The only other city taking part in Canada is Toronto. With that announcement also came the burden of preparation.

 

There needed to be a certain amount of fields for teams to practice, places with security but also good facilities.

 

So it started 3 years ago with updates to smaller parks and stadiums to be up to FIFA standard. Like how BC Place has just put in actual grass as per the requirement of FIFA. Now the changing of downtown scenery. Removing all the local team decals and logos to meet advertising standards. I mean even Science World is taking part, transforming the silver sphere into a soccer ball.

 

One cool thing is how the anticipation in the city is starting to build. Bars and restaurants getting ready to host watch parties and hopefully parties after the wins. People of all nations putting on jerseys and celebrating a chance to compete for being known as the best of the rest. All eyes are on this tournament and it’s truly larger than ever. This time around there are going to be 48 teams as opposed to the 32 of the 2022 World Cup.

 

There are also viewing parties that will be set up across the Lower Mainland. There is one planned on Granville Island where there will be up to 1,000 seats. There’s also the FIFA Fan Festival which will be hosted at the PNE. The festival has live musicians, activities like shooting against a robot goal keeper, a skills showcase for all ages, and tons of food options.

 

Vancouver feels alive and by all means it hasn’t even begun. We are still expecting thousands of visitors from all round the world to come here and cheer on their teams. Imagine how hectic and crazy it’ll be as thousands flood Granville Street after a match to celebrate their team’s win.

 

I hope we can show everyone from around the world, like we did in 2010, that this is a great city.

 

Vancouver can be a party city too.