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BMO Field stands as one of Canada’s premier sports venues and will host several matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026. Toronto soccer fans eagerly anticipate this global event that will transform their home stadium.
FIFA selected BMO Field as one of the Canadian host venues alongside Vancouver, joining 11 other cities across North America for this prestigious tournament. The stadium will undergo extensive renovations to meet international standards, solidifying its place in World Cup history.
BMO Field Capacity and Expansions for FIFA 2026
BMO Field currently accommodates 28,180 spectators for regular events. However, FIFA World Cup preparations will dramatically increase this number. The stadium will add 17,756 new seats, expanding the total capacity to 45,736 for the tournament.
This major renovation demonstrates Toronto’s commitment to hosting world-class soccer matches. Construction teams will complete all necessary modifications to ensure the venue meets FIFA requirements before 2026.
Historical Capacity Changes
This isn’t the first time BMO Field has grown to meet demand. The stadium opened in 2007 with a modest capacity but quickly needed expansion. In 2010, the venue added a northern section to accommodate more fans.
More significant renovations occurred between 2014-2016, increasing capacity to over 30,000 and adding a protective roof structure. These previous expansions prepared BMO Field for its current transformation into a World Cup venue.
Stadium Location and Accessibility
BMO Field sits in Toronto’s Exhibition Place, a historic event ground near downtown. The address, 170 Princes’ Boulevard, places it in a prime location with excellent city access.
Exhibition Place has hosted various stadiums over a century, making this site a traditional sporting location for Torontonians. The stadium’s position offers spectacular views of the Toronto skyline from certain sections.
Surrounding Area
The stadium’s location provides easy access to downtown Toronto attractions. Exhibition Place hosts numerous events throughout the year, creating a vibrant atmosphere around the stadium.
Lake Ontario borders the southern edge of the complex, offering beautiful waterfront views. Visitors can enjoy the surrounding entertainment district before or after matches during the World Cup.
Stadium Design and Architecture
BMO Field’s design comes from Brisbin Brooks Beynon Architects (BBB Architects), with expansion work by Gensler. The stadium presents a modern structure with distinctive steel elements and light brick exterior finishing.
The northeast section deliberately remains open, framing downtown Toronto’s skyline. This architectural feature creates a unique viewing experience for fans attending World Cup matches.
Playing Surface
The playing field features an innovative hybrid surface installed in 2019. This state-of-the-art system combines natural grass with artificial fibers. The technology stitches polyethylene fibers 18 centimeters deep into the ground every 20 millimeters.
These fibers act as “rebar for the soil,” creating a more stable and consistent playing surface. The hybrid field handles challenging weather conditions much better than traditional grass.
Roof Structure
A massive roof canopy covers the south, east, and west stands, protecting fans from weather elements. Added during the 2016 renovation, this impressive structure required specialized construction techniques.
The south canopy alone measured 377 x 68 feet and weighed 490 metric tonnes. Enormous lattice boom crawler cranes lifted these sections into place. Four steel super-columns support the entire roof structure, anchored 7 meters deep into bedrock.
Transportation Options
Public Transit
BMO Field offers exceptional public transit access, making it an environmentally friendly choice for World Cup visitors. The Exhibition GO station sits just a 3-minute walk away, connecting to regional train services.
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) options include the 509 Harbourfront and 511 Bathurst streetcars. The 29 Dufferin bus also provides service to the stadium from Dufferin Station on the Bloor subway line.
Driving and Parking
Drivers can easily reach BMO Field via major highways. The Gardner Expressway provides the most direct route for most travelers. Various parking options surround the stadium, though prices increase significantly during major events.
Many regular attendees recommend parking in nearby Liberty Village to avoid post-game traffic congestion. Construction on nearby highways may cause delays, so checking traffic apps before departure helps avoid problems.
Cycling and Alternative Transportation
BMO Field encourages sustainable transportation by providing over 100 bicycle racks around the stadium perimeter. The venue connects to Toronto’s expanding network of bike paths.
Ride-sharing services offer another convenient option, with designated pick-up and drop-off zones. Many fans coming with friends split ride-sharing costs for convenience and affordability after games.
Stadium Amenities and Features
Food and Beverage Options
BMO Field takes pride in its diverse food offerings that showcase Toronto’s multicultural character. Food Junction locations throughout the concourses serve fan favorites like crispy fried chicken sandwiches, grilled beef burgers, and foot-long taquitos.
Specialty stands include Panini locations offering carved-to-order porchetta sandwiches and Frites serving various poutine options. Pizza Pizza outlets provide familiar options for less adventurous eaters.
Premium Seating and Suites
The stadium offers various premium experiences for those seeking luxury accommodations during World Cup matches. Private suites include amenities like dedicated attendants, in-suite televisions, and exclusive food service.
The premium seating areas provide the best views in the stadium along with enhanced comfort. MLSE, the stadium operator, continually improves these premium offerings to match international standards expected for a World Cup venue.
Fan Experience Enhancements
BMO Field features numerous amenities enhancing the overall fan experience. The stadium provides excellent sightlines from all seating areas, with no seat more than 135 feet from the field.
The venue offers comprehensive accessibility services, including wheelchair escorts and storage. A clear bag policy speeds up entry procedures maintaining security standards. The stadium’s design creates an intimate atmosphere that generates impressive crowd energy during matches.
Game Day Experience for World Cup 2026
Fans attending World Cup matches at BMO Field will enjoy a uniquely Toronto experience. The stadium’s concourses will feature special World Cup themes and international food options.
FIFA typically enhances host venues with additional fan zones and interactive displays. The expanded seating will create an electric atmosphere as fans from around the world fill the stadium. Local organizers plan cultural exhibits showcasing Canadian heritage throughout the venue.
Security Measures
World Cup events implement comprehensive security protocols to ensure fan safety. BMO Field will adopt FIFA’s standard security measures including enhanced screening at all entrances.
The clear bag policy will continue, limiting the size and type of bags permitted inside. Security personnel will undergo specialized training for handling international crowds. These measures aim to create a safe environment without disrupting the festive atmosphere of the tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will BMO Field’s expansion for FIFA World Cup 2026 be completed?
The stadium expansion project must finish before FIFA’s final venue inspections ahead of the 2026 tournament. Construction teams will add 17,756 new seats, bringing total capacity to 45,736 for World Cup matches. The timeline ensures all work finishes with adequate testing time.
2. How can I get to BMO Field using public transportation?
You can reach BMO Field via the Exhibition GO station (3-minute walk), TTC streetcars (509 Harbourfront, 511 Bathurst), or the 29 Dufferin bus. The venue sits just minutes from downtown Toronto with multiple transit options that run frequently on match days.
3. What kind of playing surface does BMO Field have?
BMO Field features an innovative hybrid playing surface combining natural grass with artificial fibers. This SISGrass system stitches polyethylene fibers into the soil to create better stability and durability throughout Toronto’s challenging weather seasons. The system matches those used in Premier League stadiums.
4. Does BMO Field have a roof?
Yes, BMO Field has a roof canopy covering the south, east, and west stands. This structure protects most spectators from rain and other weather elements, making games enjoyable regardless of conditions. The roof design allows natural light to reach the playing surface.
5. What food options are available at BMO Field?
The stadium offers diverse food choices including fried chicken sandwiches, porchetta sandwiches, various poutine options, foot-long taquitos, and pizza. Specialty stands throughout the concourses provide options for all tastes and dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-friendly items.
6. How much will tickets cost for FIFA World Cup matches at BMO Field?
FIFA hasn’t announced official ticket prices for 2026 World Cup matches yet. Prices will vary based on match importance, seating location, and package options. FIFA typically releases ticket information approximately one year before the tournament begins, with various price categories available.
7. Does BMO Field offer premium seating options?
Yes, BMO Field provides various premium experiences including private suites with dedicated attendants, in-suite televisions, and exclusive food service. These premium options will expand further with the World Cup renovations to accommodate corporate partners and VIP guests.
8. What is the history of BMO Field?
BMO Field opened in 2007 as Canada’s first soccer-specific stadium. It has undergone several expansions, notably in 2010 and 2014-2016. The venue hosts Toronto FC soccer matches and Toronto Argonauts Canadian football games. It previously hosted the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
9. Where should I park when attending events at BMO Field?
Various parking options surround the stadium, though spaces fill quickly for major events. Many regular attendees recommend parking in nearby Liberty Village to avoid post-game traffic congestion or using public transportation. Pre-purchasing parking passes saves time and often money.
10. Will BMO Field host other events during the FIFA World Cup period?
During the World Cup tournament window, FIFA requires exclusive use of the venue. All regular events, including Toronto FC matches, will relocate or reschedule during this period to maintain the field quality and security protocols. The stadium focus shifts entirely to World Cup operations.
