FIFA decision: Statement from Minister Orr

Minister of Culture Ron Orr issued the following statement on the recent FIFA World Cup 2026 host city announcement: 

“We share in the collective disappointment with soccer fans here in Alberta and across Canada that Edmonton was not chosen as one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“It is unfortunate that soccer fans will not experience the beauty and vibrancy of Edmonton and our province as a whole. Alberta’s government worked hard and committed a significant financial sum to help the bid along. Our province has hosted countless world-class sporting events. Commonwealth Stadium is the biggest facility in Western Canada and would play an excellent host.

“While they won’t have the opportunity to see the games here, we do hope fans visiting Canada watch the matches and take the opportunity to travel to Alberta and experience our first-class western hospitality, our picturesque landscapes and our energetic cities.

“I wish to thank the City of Edmonton for its courage and vision. Your enthusiasm for these games has been noteworthy. We share your disappointment with this decision. I congratulate the successful 2026 FIFA World Cup host cities.”

Mayor Sohi – FIFA World Cup 2026™

“Today, I am disappointed to announce that Edmonton was not successful in our bid for the FIFA World Cup in 2026™. We advocated fiercely, we had our provincial and federal government partners on board to provide funding, and most of all, we had the support of Edmontonians,” said Mayor Amarjeet Sohi.

“I am proud of the bid that we put forward, and I will explore other ways to put Edmonton on the world stage. I wish the recently announced host cities the best of luck in 2026.

I will continue to work tirelessly to increase tourism, create jobs and foster community here in Edmonton, Alberta’s capital city. Thank you to everyone who was involved in this process.”