Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Toronto, in partnership with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), has completed Phase 1 of major upgrades at Toronto Stadium, marking a key step in preparations to host FIFA World Cup 26™.
The first phase of renovations included the installation of four massive videoboards—each more than 50 by 30 feet with over five million LED pixels—attached to the stadium’s corner columns. The Video Production Control Room was upgraded and expanded, featuring an isolated sound booth, improved pitch views, and enhanced control of the stadium’s entertainment systems. Broadcast infrastructure was also expanded to meet international television standards.
There will be improvements to concessions and concourse areas, including self-serve technology and a new permanent west-side kitchen, while stadium Wi-Fi has been upgraded to support greater connectivity. Additional enhancements include a new Centre Field “Coinbase” lounge and renovations to west-side hospitality suites.
“With Phase 1 complete, Toronto Stadium is already shaping up to offer an extraordinary experience for fans and players alike,” said a city spokesperson.
Phase 2 of the upgrades, set to begin in December, will focus on temporary seating expansion to increase capacity to 45,000, installation of LED stadium lighting meeting FIFA broadcast standards, player space improvements including new dugouts, seat replacement, and additional temporary hospitality areas. Broadcast infrastructure will also be refined in preparation for the world’s biggest soccer tournament.
The investments include $123 million from the City and $23 million from MLSE, ensuring that Toronto’s home stadium is ready to host international competition while leaving a lasting legacy.
Toronto is set to host six FIFA World Cup 26™ matches, beginning on Friday, June 12, 2026, with the first-ever men’s World Cup match on Canadian soil featuring Canada’s Men’s National Team. The city will also host a round of 32 match on Thursday, July 2, 2026.
A 2024 economic impact assessment by Deloitte Canada estimated that FIFA World Cup 26™ could generate up to $940 million in positive economic output for the Greater Toronto Area, including $520 million in GDP growth, $340 million in labour income, $25 million in government revenue, and more than 6,600 jobs between June 2023 and August 2026.
