The projected cost for British Columbia to host part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has risen substantially, now estimated to be between $483 million and $581 million, compared to initial estimates of $240 million to $260 million. Vancouver, one of the host cities, anticipates significant economic benefits from hosting seven matches, including increased tourism and economic activity. Despite concerns over the increased costs and lack of transparency regarding agreements with FIFA, officials remain optimistic about the potential positive impact on the local economy, with the federal government also pledging $116 million to support operational and construction costs.

By contrast, when Toronto first pitched the games in 2018, a city report estimated the cost at between $30 million and $45 million. Later in 2022, those cost projections would balloon to about $300 million. Now it sits at approximately $380 million.