Was hosting the FIFA World Cup worth the price tag?

The seventh and final FIFA World Cup match at Vancouver’s BC Place was on July 7.

Canada held a total of 13 World Cup games. The parliamentary budget officer estimated each match to cost $82 million.

Co-hosting the World Cup was estimated to cost taxpayers nearly $1.1 billion. Of the total funding, $473 million would come from the federal government, and the remaining $593 million would be funded by other levels of government.

Yet, Vancouver’s projected costs jumped to about $700 million, nearly $100 million more than was estimated last year.

The increase is mainly due to a more complete safety and security plan and updated estimates for the FIFA Fan Festival at Hastings Park, the government said.

Canada’s spending has attracted criticism. An Angus Reid Institute poll found that 72 per cent of Metro Vancouver residents surveyed said the cost was not worth it to host the World Cup.

However, $82 million per match is still lower than other countries have spent. During the 2014 World Cup, Brazil spent US$90.9 million per game.

The World Cup is one of the most expensive sporting events.

Some of the biggest costs include stadium upgrades, public safety funding, and border service upgrades.

The question is not whether hosting the World Cup is expensive, but if there are enough long-term values and benefits to justify the cost for Canada.

Supporting community and increased tourism after the tournament ends are some forms of positive long-term value.

However, investments associated with the tournament are expected to benefit local businesses and tourism, creating a new channel for future economic activity in B.C. as seen in the 2010 Olympics.

Anne Kang, B.C.’s tourism minister, told CBC’s This is Vancouver that the tournament should be seen as a long-term investment rather than a big short-term expense.

I agree — the World Cup is expected to benefit local businesses and tourism, creating a new channel for future economic activity in B.C.

Previous major sporting events, like the 2022 World Cup, showed that improved infrastructure and global visibility continue long after fans leave.

Economical benefits alone do not represent the full value of hosting this event. It can create moments of national unity and inspiration for future generations of athletes.

Those who support Canada hosting the World Cup often compare it to the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Despite debates over the costs, the Olympics left behind improved infrastructure and increased global recognition for the city.

The World Cup brings visitors, encourages investment, and strengthens Canada’s global image.

The billion-dollar expense can be justified if Canada treats the tournament as more than just a series of soccer games. This must be balanced with clear communication with taxpayers as to where their money is going.

Canadians will view the spending differently if the value from upgrading infrastructure, tourism, and global exposure continue producing benefits decades later.