Vancouver gets down to details as it prepares to welcome world after FIFA draw

The lead of Vancouver's host committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup says now that the draw for the tournament is complete, officials can turn to refining safety, security, staffing and traffic plans for what she called the largest-ever sporting event.

The city will be ready to host the world in 185 days when the tournament spanning three countries and 16 cities kicks off, Jessie Adcock said Monday.

Asked about accommodations for fans flocking to the city, Adcock told a news conference that calculations made alongside Destination B.C. and Destination Vancouver show there will be enough options across the region to meet demand.

The city's short-term rental regulations allow homeowners to list their principal residence for 90 days or less, which could be a supplement for hotels, she said.

Under the host city agreement with FIFA, there will be a controlled area of roughly two kilometres around B.C. Place stadium in downtown Vancouver.

Adcock said extra precautions will be taken in the zone to ensure public safety and "protect FIFA commercial affiliates."

"We need to control which way traffic patterns are, where we put volunteers, and then, there's the brand piece. Other than that, businesses can all operate business-as-usual, residents can all go to all their regular places."

Vancouver gears up to host 2026 FIFA World Cup matches

There will be some road closures on the days matches are held, Adcock said.

The host committee will share a human rights action plan in the new year, laying out measures it will take to protect vulnerable people in the area, she said. 

"In that area, there is currently no plan to displace anybody."

The news conference was held next to Killarney Park, where Adcock said work on one of two official