Canada Soccer eyes surplus after years of deficits ahead of World Cup

Canada Soccer is projecting a $6.55 million surplus in 2026, marking a turnaround after years of deficits as it prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup.

The governing body said in a financial update released Wednesday its 2025 deficit was $1.44 million, down from $3.99 million in 2024 and nearly $1 million below its budgeted deficit.

The improved outlook comes with Canada co-hosting the World Cup. Canada Soccer is set to stage matches in Toronto and Vancouver and benefit from related sponsorship, broadcast and matchday revenue.

A reworked commercial agreement with Canadian Soccer Media & Entertainment, formerly Canadian Soccer Business, is expected to deliver more than $100 million in additional net revenue over its 12-year term.

Canada Soccer projects revenue to approach $62 million in 2026, with expenses forecast at $55.4 million. The surplus is expected to help rebuild reserves after years of deficits while maintaining investment in national team programs, coaching and domestic leagues.

The World Cup, co-hosted with the United States and Mexico, runs June 11 to July 19, 2026, and includes 13 matches in Canada — six in Toronto and seven in Vancouver.

Plans have been unveiled for festivities across Canada as the country prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup this summer

FIFA released the route Wednesday for Canada Celebrates, a tour that will make 38 stops in 34 cities from Halifax to Whitehorse between June 1 and July 19.

Vancouver and Toronto are among the 16 cities across Canada, the United States and Mexico hosting games in this summer's tournament.

The plan has long been to include the entire country in the excitement, said Victor Montagliani, FIFA vice president and CONCACAF president.

The first stop will be in