FIFA requests priority health care access for athletes, VIPs ahead of 2026 World Cup in Toronto and Vancouver

Organizers of the FIFA Men's World Cup in 2026 have requested pre-arranged access to medical care for athletes and VIPs at Toronto and Vancouver hospitals as part of both cities' responsibility for the games.

According to a FIFA document outlining host city requirements, the organization is asking for the access in designated hospitals as well as a full range of medical specialist care, medication, and adequately qualified medical staff. 

In simple terms, pre-arranged access means that FIFA aims to have a clearly designated hospital for athletes or VIPs seeking urgent emergency care after being evaluated at the stadium facilities.  

Canada is a co-host of the tournament with the U.S. and Mexico, with Toronto playing host to six games, and Vancouver seven. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

A statement from FIFA to CBC Sports says that the guidelines are in place for all FIFA tournaments and are similar to those of other international bodies organizing major events. 

"FIFA's medical guidelines seek to establish clearly defined processes that ensure efficient provision of care to tournament participants and avoid any unnecessary burden on local healthcare resources," the statement said. "Medical services are designed to primarily ensure that there is no delay in providing rapid access to emergency care in time-critical situations."

Ontario's Ministry of Health told CBC Sports that any and all requests regarding the healthcare system are "from FIFA" and "do not reflect commitments from the Ministry of Health."

Meanwhile, B.C.'s Ministry of Health says that no agreements exist with Vancouver Coastal Health to provide FIFA athletes or VIPs with priority access to the provincial health care system. 

"As always,