MAJOR upgrades and renovations to BC Place Vancouver were unveiled on Tuesday, marking one month to go until the stadium hosts seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, with the first match at BC Place Vancouver on June 13.
“Hosting FIFA World Cup matches will drive tourism and bring significant economic benefits as soccer fans from around the globe discover why our beautiful province is such a great place to visit and invest,” said Premier David Eby. “With upgrades and renovations to our world-class stadium, like our new Abbotsford-grown grass turf, we are ready to welcome the world to the biggest event that British Columbia has ever hosted – supporting local businesses and jobs along the way.”
All stadium upgrades and renovations are on track to be completed on time and within the capital budget estimate shown in Budget 2026. Stadium enhancements include major accessibility improvements, inclusivity and technology, along with new hospitality and hosting spaces, and a permanent merchandise store. The hybrid sod grass pitch has been installed, and the athlete and talent experience will also be enhanced through newly renovated player locker rooms, showers and bathrooms.
“As we prepare to welcome the world, we are immensely proud that BC Place, Vancouver and British Columbia will shine on the global stage, as we host seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in June and July, including two games featuring Canadian men’s national team,” said Anne Kang, Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “The significant upgrades and renovations at BC Place Vancouver are about more than delivering an unforgettable FIFA World Cup, they’re a legacy investment in our province. These improvements will help ensure our stadium remains accessible, modern and globally competitive for decades to come, positioning BC Place Vancouver to continue attracting world-class sport, music and major events that benefit British Columbians long after the final whistle.”
Several new hospitality and event spaces have been added at BC Place Vancouver and are ready to welcome a diverse range of new events. The additions will also create legacy benefits that support the stadium’s financial sustainability through expanded revenue opportunities.
“We are fully ready to deliver the best experience possible for all of the British Columbians, residents of Canada and visitors from around the world who will be at BC Place Vancouver for any of our seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches,” said Rehana Din, president and CEO, BC Pavilion Corporation. “But whenever you next visit BC Place Vancouver, you will see notable improvements to the stadium’s accessibility, inclusivity and technology, greatly improving the long-term fan experience, whether that’s at a sports event, concert or community gathering.”
The upgrades will enhance the stadium experience, positioning BC Place Vancouver as a world-class hosting stadium to support international sporting events, concerts and community gatherings for people in British Columbia and visitors. It aligns with the Province’s Look West: Tourism Sector Action Plan, leveraging the exposure of the FIFA World Cup to strengthen B.C.’s global position, attract investment and create lasting economic benefits.
The seven matches are expected to attract more than 350,000 soccer fans to BC Place Vancouver during the tournament and generate an estimated additional $1 billion in visitor spending for B.C.’s economy from 2026-2031.
Chris May, general manager, BC Place Vancouver, said: “We have not just modernized BC Place Vancouver, we have completely reimagined the stadium so we can attract a more diversified stream of business, including conferences and community activations, creating a foundation for welcoming new and different international events to the province and stimulating our economy. With the addition of private entrances and exterior elevator access, the new spaces are designed to operate both as premium hospitality areas during sporting events and concerts, and as independent event spaces for private bookings and corporate events.”
Guest experience improvements
* Accessibility and inclusivity: Three new passenger elevators, which will increase capacity to support fans with accessibility needs, and renovations of washrooms with the addition of several gender-neutral facilities.
* In-stadium technology: New high-definition video boards on the stadium’s centre-hung and upgraded Wi-Fi throughout the stadium to help ensure improved coverage and speed for media and guests.
* Merchandise store: A brand new, dedicated store on Terry Fox Plaza that will showcase merchandise from tenant teams, concerts, and more.
Player, artist and media experience improvements
* Grass pitch and field of play: The playing surface was grown in the Fraser Valley, and the field-of-play area was constructed by a firm from Langley, supporting British Columbia agriculture and businesses.
* Showers, bathrooms and locker rooms: Updated wet rooms and locker rooms, which will benefit tenant teams, visiting sports stars and musical artists from around the world.
* Media broadcast zone: The stadium media broadcast control room has been reconfigured and improved with modern technology and accessibility.
Hospitality experience improvements
* Corner Club: BC Place Vancouver’s Corner Club features floor-to-ceiling views of False Creek, with direct sightlines to the stadium bowl through expansive windows and balcony access. The flexible space can scale from small to large events when conjoined with nearby spaces.
* Field Club: A field-level reception and lounge area offers an elevated event-day experience. Field Club has the option to expand its event space into three nearby banquet rooms, increasing its capacity significantly.
* Edgewater Lounge: A premium bar and fan zone experience with the option for enclosed meeting spaces or private hosting areas.
* The Tribune: Newly renovated suites featuring private washrooms and a dedicated lounge and bar designed for pre-event activities, such as dinner or networking. The space features an enclosed viewing platform with direct sightlines of the field and stages for concerts.
Renovations and upgrades:
* The provincial and federal governments have helped fund renovations and upgrades at BC Place Vancouver.
* Despite global economic pressures, including ongoing uncertainty around tariffs, rising construction costs and significant market competition for construction labour and materials, the stadium upgrades and renovations are progressing as planned and remain on schedule for completion.
* The seven matches at BC Place Vancouver are expected to attract more than 350,000 fans and generate an estimated $1 billion in additional visitor spending for B.C.’s economy from 2026-31.
