Istanbul: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney marked the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, highlighting a record government investment in sport as the largest World Cup in the competition's history gets underway across North America. The tournament, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, runs from June 11 to July 19 and brings together 48 countries for 104 games across 16 cities. Canada will host 13 matches in Toronto and Vancouver.

According to Anadolu Agency, Carney emphasized the significance of hosting FIFA Men's World Cup matches in Canada for the first time. With games taking place in Vancouver and Toronto, the event is expected to draw fans from across Canada and around the world to sports bars, hotels, and living rooms. He noted that Canada's government has made the largest investment in sport in Canadian history, committing over $750 million to support athletes at every level. The funding backs the Canada Soccer National Training Centre and includes 330 soccer projects announced last month, ranging from live match viewings to soccer-themed cultural programs.

Carney stated the tournament marks 40 years since Canada first appeared at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, adding that soccer has flourished across the nation, in schools, alleyways, and coaching academies. He highlighted the economic impact of the event, projecting it to create and support nearly 25,000 jobs and add $2 billion to Canada's economy, affirming that Canada is ready for the beautiful game.