Game On! FIFA World Cup 2026™ Match Updates and Province-Wide Tourism Efforts

With confirmation that Vancouver will host matches featuring Australia, Switzerland, Qatar, New Zealand, Egypt, Belgium – and of course, Canada – this is a key moment to share an update on Destination BC and the BC Tourism FC’s work to prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Building Awareness Before and Beyond the Matches

Two major initiatives launched in December to help drive travel around match days and spotlight British Columbia as a world-class destination:

Beautiful Seats Campaign – Phase 2

The second phase of our Beautiful Seats campaign is now live and will run through mid-January. This campaign showcases some of the most scenic places in BC and invites visitors to explore beyond the stadiums.

In support of this work, our recent call-out for Beautiful Seats in Iconic Places generated strong engagement, with:

• 170 businesses and organizations participating
• 860+ images and 230 videos submitted

We’re now organizing and curating this content for use across our campaign efforts through the lead-up to the tournament period.

New Overnight Visitor Packages

Developed in partnership with Discover Canada Tours and Entrée Canada, these multi-day packages make it easier for international fans to explore BC before and after the matches. Packages include guided touring experiences, coastal and alpine adventures, custom travel itineraries, and more.

Global Media Engagement

Destination BC has been working closely with travel media and broadcast partners to expand BC’s international exposure during the tournament period.

Recent activities include:

• Hosting media and building new relationships with key broadcasters
• Preparing themed media events and desk-side meetings in global markets
• Launching a comprehensive FIFA press kit to support proactive storytelling

These efforts will help ensure BC is well represented in coverage before, during, and after the tournament, including the potential for feature stories tied to participating countries.

Match Details and Market Potential

Destination BC’s Scholar in Residence, Dr. Jarrett Bachman, has provided a helpful look at how the Vancouver matches may unfold.

Key Summary:

• June 13: Australia vs UEFA Path C winner (TBD in March 2026). Australia is a strong tourism market for BC.
• June 18 and 24: Canada will play Qatar and Switzerland. Qatar is a high-yield, luxury market; Switzerland is a key touring market.
• June 21 and 26: Vancouver will host two Group G matches both featuring New Zealand against two teams with global stars: Egypt (featuring star Mo Salah) and Belgium (featuring star Kevin De Bruyne).
• July 2: Round of 32 may include Italy (if they win Group B and are the UEFA Path A team).
• July 7: Portugal is currently the most likely team for the Round of 16 match in Vancouver.
  

Creating Connections: Same Day Game Day Workshop

Later this month, we’ll be hosting a Same Day Game Day workshop focused on easy, high-quality day trip options from surrounding communities into Vancouver. This work helps to manage accommodation pressures while creating memorable, regional travel options on match days.

Looking Ahead

Additional activities are in motion and more updates will follow as the tournament approaches and team details are finalized.

Stay connected and visit bctourismfc.ca for resources and updates.