Today, the City of Toronto officially kicked off its volunteer recruitment drive for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, inviting residents to join the starting lineup to help deliver the world’s biggest sporting event.
As one of 16 Host Cities, Toronto is building a team of more than 3,000 volunteers to support fan experiences, accessibility services, media operations and event logistics. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a global event, demonstrate civic pride and help showcase the city’s diversity and hospitality on the world stage.
Toronto will host six FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches including Canada’s Men’s National Team highly anticipated home opener on June 12, 2026. Behind every goal and celebration will be a dedicated team of volunteers ensuring the experience runs smoothly. Opportunities are open to residents from all backgrounds – newcomers, retirees and multilingual community members are all encouraged to sign up.
Volunteers will have the chance to gain practical experience, develop new skills and make lasting memories. Grounded in the values of inclusion, community pride and legacy, the volunteer program offers a rare opportunity to contribute to an historic moment for Toronto. There is no set deadline for applying but early submissions are strongly encouraged as 3,000 spots may fill up quickly. To be eligible, volunteers must be 18 years or older when they submit their application. To apply or learn more, visit FIFA World Cup 2026™ website.
Virtual volunteer information sessions will take place on
To learn more about the program and available volunteer roles, register for an upcoming information session on the City's FIFA World Cup 26™ Toronto Volunteers webpage.
FIFA World Cup 26™
The tournament begins in Mexico City on Thursday, June 11, 2026 and concludes with the final match in New York/New Jersey on Sunday, July 19, 2026. Toronto will host six matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, beginning with the first-ever men’s FIFA World Cup™ match on Canadian soil on Friday, June 12, 2026 and a round of 32 match on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Funding and services provided by the Government of Canada and Province of Ontario will contribute to enhancing the necessary infrastructure and logistics in delivering Toronto’s matches and ancillary events for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
In December 2024, FIFA released an economic impact assessment, prepared by Deloitte Canada, estimating that FIFA World Cup 26™ could generate up to $940 million in positive economic output for the Greater Toronto Area. This includes a projected $520 million in GDP growth, $340 million in labour income and $25 million in government revenue. The tournament is also expected to create more than 6,600 jobs between June 2023 and August 2026, providing a substantial boost to the region’s economy.
Pre-registration for FIFA World Cup 26™ ticket information is available through FIFA’s official ticketing platform.
Quotes
“Toronto is proud to be a Host City for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and we’re even prouder of the people who will help make it happen. Volunteers are the heart of every major event in our city. This is your chance to be part of history, to meet new people and to show the world the warmth and diversity of Toronto.”
— Mayor Olivia Chow
“Sporting events don’t just happen – it takes a huge team of dedicated and passionate volunteers to transform these moments into unforgettable experiences. As we prepare to welcome the world for the FIFA World Cup next summer, I encourage fans across Ontario to get involved and become part of this once-in-a-generation event.”
— Neil Lumsden, Ontario Minister of Sport
“Volunteers are often the first touchpoint fans have in a FIFA World Cup host city. They are the heartbeat of this tournament. The ones who will bring the passion for football to life in Toronto. With their dedication, pride, and energy, they’ll help create unforgettable moments and show the world why this city loves the beautiful game.”
— Peter Montopoli, Chief Tournament Officer, Canada FIFA World Cup 2026™
“This is about more than volunteering – it’s about community, legacy and pride. Our volunteers will help shape the experience of fans, players and visitors and they will represent the very best of Toronto. This program is an incredible opportunity for residents to build skills, make memories and contribute to something truly global.”
— Sharon Bollenbach, Executive Director, FIFA World Cup 26™ Toronto Secretariat
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City's website or follow us on X, Instagram or Facebook.