The world’s premier international football competition starts this weekend.  The 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP OF SOCCER is ready to go!

It’s being co-hosted by 3 countries – which is a first.  Canada, the U.S and Mexico.  Also – another first – it’ll feature 48 teams.  ARGENTINA is looking to become the third defending champion in history – to retain the trophy.  Opening matches start TOMORROW.  Friday, will see Canada’s first game against Bosnia in Toronto at what’s now being called “Toronto Stadium” – which is actually BMO Field.  Canada is in the Group B standings, and is ranked 30th going into the competition.  

Canada will host 13 matches…6 in Toronto and 7 in Vancouver.  While Canada hosted the women’s tournament in 2015, this is the first time the men’s FIFA World Cup matches are played in our country.  

All 3 host cities – will have their own mascot.  For Canada – you’ll see and hear a lot about “Maple The Moose”.  FIFA describes Maple as a ‘street style-loving artists, music enthusiast and dedicated goal-keeper’.  

Whether you have tickets over the course of the next 5 weeks, or know someone who does – this is one of the biggest sporting events in the world – and it all starts tomorrow.