From Baghdad to Toronto: What awaits Arab fans at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

TORONTO: As the FIFA World Cup 2026 gets underway across North America, thousands of Arab football fans are preparing to follow Iraq’s journey on football’s biggest stage.

For many, Toronto could become one of the tournament’s most welcoming destinations.

Tomorrow, Canada will kick off their campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium, marking the start of a six-week celebration of football in the country’s largest city. Toronto will host six matches during the tournament as supporters from around the world descend on the city.

For Arab fans, one fixture that stands out is Iraq’s clash with Senegal on June 26, which will bring the Lions of Mesopotamia to Toronto, giving supporters from across the Middle East a chance to follow their team in one of North America’s most multicultural cities.

The appeal of Toronto, however, extends well beyond matchday.

Home to people from more than 250 ethnic backgrounds who collectively speak over 160 languages, Toronto has long been shaped by immigration. Nearly 80 percent of residents are first- or second-generation Canadians, many with roots in football-loving nations across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. During major international tournaments, that diversity helps create a uniquely global football atmosphere.

“With or without tickets, the city will be exploding with World Cup mania,” said Vanessa Somarriba, director of media relations at Destination Toronto.

At the heart of the festivities will be the FIFA Fan Festival at Fort York and The Bentway, where supporters can watch all 104 World Cup matches on giant screens while enjoying live music, cultural programming, international food vendors and family-friendly activities.

Beyond the