June 11 marks just 12 short months until fans from around the world fill our streets, restaurants, bars, and stadium with the passion of the beautiful game. Today, that milestone is being marked with an unveiling of the Countdown Clock, an official proclamation and mini-pitch matches for local youth footballers and special guests.
“The FIFA World Cup 26 isn’t just a tournament but a historic moment to showcase our city on the world stage,” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim. We’re ready to welcome the world with open arms and create unforgettable memories for fans, families, and future soccer stars alike. From the pitch to our public spaces, this is going to be a celebration of culture, community, and the beautiful game.
The One Year to Go milestone is being celebrated across all 16 host cities. Vancouver’s celebrations will be rooted in community and inclusivity, reflecting our vibrant soccer culture which brings together people of all backgrounds.
Growing up playing soccer on the fields of East Vancouver, I could have only dreamed of a moment like this – the FIFA World Cup 26 will be right here in our city, one year from today,” said Victor Montagliani, FIFA Vice President and President of Concacaf. This isn’t just a global milestone; it’s deeply personal. I’ve lived and breathed football my whole life. This is a once in a lifetime moment for Vancouver, our youth, and everyone who has ever laced up a pair of cleats on a local pitch.
“With one year to go until our province welcomes the FIFA World Cup 26, excitement is building across BC,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that promises to deliver pride, unity, community spirit and economic benefits. We look forward to sharing all that makes Vancouver, and our province special with the world.”
How we’re celebrating
- Countdown Clock: Officials and special guests gathered on Terry Fox Plaza today to unveil Vancouver’s official Host City Countdown Clock, which will count down the days until the historic tournament kicks off. Snap a selfie at the clock and hashtag it #WeAreVancouver today through the end of the tournament next year.
- Soccer Day: Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim proclaimed June 13 Soccer Day in Vancouver to honour Vancouver’s vibrant and growing soccer community and one year until kick off at BC Place Vancouver.
- Best Match: Youth players participated in mini-pitch matches that were fully produced, with coaches Christine Sinclair and Tosaint Ricketts, creating the energy and excitement of a real game.
- Light up Canada: Landmarks in Vancouver and around the country will light up in red and white to mark One Year to Go until the FIFA World Cup 26 kicks off in Canada. This display will bring us together in a moment of national celebration as we prepare to welcome visitors from around the world in 2026.
- Words from FIFA icon and proud Vancouverite Karina LeBlanc: Five-time FIFA World Cup footballer, FIFA Legend and retired Olympic medalist, Karina LeBlanc welcomes the world to her hometown in a heartfelt video message. With passion and pride, she shares how the beautiful game shaped her life and why Vancouver holds a special place in her heart as a host city.
- Merchandise giveaways: We are partnering with BC Soccer and local soccer clubs to give away official FIFA World Cup 26 gear through the month of June. Visit www.vancouverfwc26.ca/1ytg for chances to win one of five prize packs.
Significant planning is underway to ensure the event experience in 2026 will be memorable, accessible and safe, so all fans, regardless of background or ability, can enjoy this historic event. With volunteer registration launching later this summer, more opportunities to get involved in this unique event are ahead in the coming months. Additionally, in December we will learn who plays in Vancouver’s group stage matches.
Stay informed, get involved
- Follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook @FWC26 Vancouver.
- Tickets go on sale in the coming months. Sign up to receive more information at FIFA.com/tickets, the official and preferred source of tickets for the tournament.
- Express your interest to volunteer by joining the FIFA Volunteer Community at FIFA.com/volunteer and completing the expression of interest form.
Photo credit: City of Vancouver
