Toronto Plans Parking Restrictions as City Prepares for 2026 FIFA World Cup Matches

Toronto is preparing for significant traffic and parking changes in parts of its downtown core as the city counts down to hosting several matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. City officials say parking restrictions will be introduced in areas near the main stadium to manage the large crowds expected during the tournament.

The city will host its first World Cup match on June 12 at BMO Field, located at Exhibition Place. The game will feature Canada playing against a European team that has yet to be determined. Tens of thousands of fans are expected to attend the opening match, marking one of six games scheduled to take place in Toronto during the global event.

Despite the approaching tournament, the City of Toronto has not yet released a detailed traffic and parking management plan. Officials say the strategy is still being finalized and will be presented later this month.

Mike Barnet, Toronto’s Director of Enforcement and Street Management, recently informed members of a city committee that a formal plan outlining parking limitations will be introduced before the end of March. The proposal will be presented to the city’s FIFA sub-committee on March 30.

According to Barnet, street parking will be restricted in several key areas surrounding the stadium. Neighborhoods such as Liberty Village and Fort York are expected to see some of the most significant limitations as authorities attempt to control congestion and ensure public safety.

City staff have also warned that traffic levels on major downtown roads could increase by at least 10 percent during the tournament, with the highest congestion likely around the final match. To address these challenges, officials are considering additional measures including temporary road closures and restrictions on construction work that could disrupt traffic flow.

Public transportation will play a major role in moving fans to and from the games. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) plans to rely heavily on its streetcar network, particularly routes connecting downtown to Exhibition Place. Work is currently underway to ensure Bathurst Street is prepared to handle the surge of passengers expected during the event.

City leaders say more detailed information about traffic routes, parking restrictions, and transit plans will be released in the coming weeks as preparations continue for one of the largest sporting events Toronto has ever hosted.