Vancouver/CMEDIA: A historic memorandum of understanding (MOU) has reportedly been signed by the Province of British Columbia and the City of Vancouver committing to work together as partners to host FIFA World Cup 26 matches in Vancouver.
“British Columbia is ready to welcome the world for the biggest event our province has ever hosted. I want to thank the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations…represents our commitment to work together to realize the benefits of some of the Men’s World Cup being played on their shared traditional territories in Vancouver…to showcase our welcoming and open province to guests from every corner of the globe,” said Premier David Eby.
Reflecting a shared commitment to deliver a world-class event, this landmark agreement honours Indigenous rights, advances reconciliation through collaboration on FIFA World Cup 26, and brings lasting benefits to people throughout British Columbia.
“Hosting FIFA World Cup 26 is an extraordinary opportunity to showcase our province to the world…who we are and what we value…This partnership ensures that First Nations are at the table from planning through to match day, so the cultural, social and economic opportunities of the FIFA World Cup reach these communities,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.
“Musqueam is excited and honoured to be working alongside Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, the Province of B.C. and the City of Vancouver for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 26 Vancouver…to have our voice heard and to take part in the planning process of a successful FIFA tournament on our traditional territory.”,” said Chief Wayne Sparrow, Musqueam.
“We at Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) believe deeply in the power of sport as a catalyst for growth and change. We are honoured to welcome guests to our shared traditional territories for FIFA World Cup 26…this tournament will generate legacies that will bring positive and lasting benefits to each of our communities for years to come,” Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, spokesperson, Squamish Nation, said.
“We’re excited to welcome FIFA World Cup 26 to our shared, traditional territories next year…The signing of this MOU is significant as it recognizes the role our Nations have as equal partners at the table in our active collaboration with the Province and the City of Vancouver to host this historic tournament,” Chief Jen Thomas, səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), said.
The MOU sets out a framework for how xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), the Province and the city will work together to plan, stage and host the FIFA World Cup 26 matches, while ensuring interests of the Nations are reflected throughout and approaches to shared opportunities are co-developed.
Drawing approximately 350,000 spectators to BC Place, FIFA World Cup 26 is expected to generate significant economic activity and create opportunities for local businesses, artists and workers across sectors.
“Partnerships with First Nations strengthen everything we do here in B.C. and hosting FIFA World Cup 26 is no exception,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “As we prepare to welcome thousands of visitors to Vancouver next year, our partnership with the City of Vancouver and Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh honours the resilience, legacy and leadership of these Nations.”
Committed to helping ensure the event leaves social and cultural legacies, the Province and its partners will benefit British Columbians well beyond the final whistle.
“FIFA World Cup 26 is set to unite our region through sport and celebration, and with the signing of today’s historic MOU, we take the next step forward…Vancouver is proud to be the city of reconciliation…is our hope that FIFA World Cup 26 will serve as an opportunity to showcase the art, culture and history of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) peoples,” said Ken Sim, mayor of Vancouver.
Planning for FIFA World Cup 26 being underway, seven matches are scheduled to be played in Vancouver in 2026.
