FIFA softens demands on World Cup host cities as pushback grows
FIFA has softened its demands on host cities for the 2026 World Cup in response to pushback from local authorities. Initially, FIFA sought various concessions that clashed with local laws, but has since backed down in Toronto and Vancouver. The changes reflect a shift in FIFA's approach as it navigates the complexities of hosting the tournament across multiple cities.
- ▪FIFA initially requested concessions from host cities, including free transit for ticket holders and exemptions from local laws.
- ▪After pushback from local authorities, FIFA has backed down on many of these demands in Toronto and Vancouver.
- ▪Toronto's procurement decisions for the World Cup are governed by municipal laws, preventing preferential treatment for FIFA's commercial partners.
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Open this photo in gallery:Toronto City Hall on May 12. FIFA had initially asked host cities to give concessions on a wide range of issues, but has since backed down in Toronto and Vancouver.Wa Lone/ReutersShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountFIFA, the governing body of the world’s most lucrative soccer tournament, is used to getting its way. But in the 2026 World Cup, at least, the Switzerland-based organization has shown it can be flexible when pushed.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Globe and Mail.
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