Canada is taking the lead in volunteer applications for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Organizers of the Canadian segment of the tournament have reported that Toronto and Vancouver are the top two cities among the 16 host cities in terms of the number of applicants. Out of the over 565,000 volunteer applications received so far, more than 180,000 are specifically for volunteering in Canada, including both Canadian and international applicants.
Victor Montagliani, serving as the Concacaf president and FIFA vice-president, expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm shown by Canadians towards the event. He mentioned that Canadians are eager to participate in any capacity, reflecting the significance of the World Cup to them.
The organizers anticipate utilizing around 65,000 volunteers, with 6,000 of them in Canada, making it FIFA’s largest volunteer program to date. These volunteers will be deployed across 23 functional areas at various sites like stadiums, training facilities, airports, and hotels.
The 2026 World Cup, featuring 48 teams and 104 games, will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with Canada, the U.S., and Mexico as the hosts. Toronto and Vancouver will be the Canadian host cities, with Toronto’s BMO Field hosting six games and Vancouver’s B.C. Place Stadium hosting seven matches.
The deadline for volunteer applications is approaching in mid-September, and the organizers anticipate a further increase in the number of applicants. Peter Montopoli, the chief tournament officer for the 2026 Canadian segment, expressed his satisfaction with the high level of interest in volunteering, seeing it as a positive sign for ticket demand.
Montagliani highlighted the growing interest in volunteering as a precursor to ticket demand, hinting at potentially surpassing previous ticketing numbers. He emphasized the importance of volunteers, describing them as essential to the success of any event.
Successful volunteer applicants will undergo tryouts starting in October, with training scheduled for March. Volunteers must be 18 or older, commit to eight shifts during the tournament period, be proficient in English (French and Spanish are also beneficial), and pass a background check. Although the role is unpaid, local transportation costs in the host city may be covered.
Applicants can select their preferred host city for volunteering, but FIFA does not provide assistance with travel or accommodation.