
B.C. economy will get a kick out of hosting FIFA World Cup games, government says
VICTORIA — There is less than a year to go before Vancouver is on the global stage hosting seven FIFA World Cup soccer games, and leaders are promoting the economic benefits of spending hundreds of millions of dollars on the international showcase.
A joint statement from B.C. Tourism Minister Spencer Chandra Herbert and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim says one million additional out-of-province visitors are expected between 2026 and 2031, generating more than $1 billion in spending.
The statement says more than 18,000 jobs could be generated in that same period.
It says FIFA predicts that preparing for and hosting the tournament could contribute $1.7 billion in economic benefits for B.C., including a $980-million increase in gross domestic product and $610 million in “labour income.”