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Sports Illustrated has named Vancouver the top host city among the 16 locations selected for World Cup 2026 matches. The magazine highlighted Vancouver’s transportation networks, walkability, and mild summer weather as key factors in its ranking.
Toronto also impressed, placing third just after Seattle. Both Canadian cities stood out for their accessibility and fan-friendly environments.
The article notes that Vancouver boasts a rapid transit system connecting downtown to the airport and suburbs, referring to it as a “subway,” though it does not specify the SkyTrain’s Expo, Millennium, or Canada Lines. Vancouver’s B.C. Place stadium benefits from its central location near bars and restaurants, allowing fans to get around without relying on cars, a contrast to many other host cities.
Vancouver’s mild coastal climate and abundance of nearby beaches further contribute to its appeal, along with organized viewing parties and free fan events. The magazine also suggests that visitors from the U.S. and Europe may find Vancouver more affordable due to the favorable exchange rate for the Canadian dollar.
San Francisco ranked last, partly because its stadium is located far from downtown. In Toronto, the stadium’s close proximity to the city center and Lake Ontario, combined with the city’s multicultural vibe, were cited as reasons for its strong rating. Toronto’s smaller, 40,000-seat venue was praised for offering a more intimate experience than many larger stadiums in the tournament.
B.C. Premier David Eby expressed pride on X, formerly Twitter, celebrating Vancouver’s recognition among North America’s top cities.
The magazine’s rankings also took into account potential transportation challenges. For example, Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium is described as “well outside the city,” with coach buses connecting the airport and attractions but many fans expected to drive and face traffic jams.
New York and New Jersey placed 13th out of 16, with overcrowded public transit cited as problematic. The World Cup final venue, MetLife Stadium in New Jersey’s Meadowlands, was called “a nightmare to get to,” set in a former swamp area.
In determining its rankings, Sports Illustrated analyzed venues, match schedules, locations, climates, transit options, tourist activities, walkability, and additional fan experiences.