City staff plan to screen about 62 matches of this summer's FIFA World Cup over 23 days at Mississauga Celebration Square.
Karen Westcott, the city's manager of event development, presented the plan to General Committee on Wednesday. The lineup would include all three of Team Canada's group-stage matches and the World Cup final. The screenings still depend on FIFA approving non-commercial public viewing rights for the square.
Cost and partners
Westcott told councillors the forecast budget is $75,000, covered within the 2026 recreation and culture budgets council has already approved. Visit Mississauga, the city's tourism agency, is adding $50,000.
Staff are also working with Visit Mississauga to move its Jackalope event. Victoria Clarke, director of tourism and CEO of Visit Mississauga, said Jackalope will relocate to the P3 parking area at Square One Shopping Centre.
The city has applied to be a stop on the Canada Celebrates FIFA World Cup 2026 tour, a one-day national celebration that staff said would bring a festival atmosphere to downtown Mississauga.
What it will look like
In answer to a question from Ward 4 Councillor John Kovac, Westcott said food concessions will be allowed on the square. However, the agreement that governs broadcast rights bars sponsorships, including the display of sponsor logos.
Ward 6 Councillor Joe Horneck asked how the space would be decorated. Westcott said staff plan cultural photo spots, decals on the ground and possibly flags representing the city's many communities.
Ward 1 Councillor Stephen Dasko asked about the role of local business improvement areas. Westcott said staff are talking with the BIAs about possible partnerships and expect to have plans ready later in March.
The committee received the staff report, dated Feb. 10 and prepared by the community services department, for information in a 7-0 vote, with three members of council absent.
Canada, the United States and Mexico are co-hosting the 2026 tournament, with Toronto among the host cities.
