2026 World Cup: Canada unveils $145m security package for Toronto and Vancouver

Canada has unveiled a major security funding package as preparations intensify for its role as a co-host of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, with authorities confirming an additional allocation of up to $145 million to safeguard tournament operations across two cities.

The announcement was made by Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree during a briefing in Toronto, where he outlined the federal government’s strategy to support law enforcement and local authorities ahead of the global football event.

Canada is set to stage 13 matches during the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, as part of a tri-nation hosting arrangement alongside the United States and Mexico.

The matches will be split between Toronto and Vancouver, two cities expected to draw large international crowds.

Under the new funding plan, approximately $45 million has been earmarked for Toronto, while Vancouver will receive the larger share of $100 million, reflecting the scale of operations and security demands across both venues.

Anandasangaree stressed that the investment is designed to reinforce safety measures at every level of the tournament, from stadium security to broader public protection systems in host cities. The objective, he said, is to ensure that fans, players and officials can participate in a secure environment throughout the competition.

The latest allocation builds on earlier federal commitments, with Ottawa already having set aside roughly $220 million to support Canadian host cities in their preparations. In total, the government has now pledged up to $320 million toward hosting responsibilities, underscoring the scale of the financial commitment involved.

Authorities have consistently highlighted security as a central pillar of Canada’s World Cup planning, given the expected influx of visitors and the logistical complexity of staging matches across multiple metropolitan centres.