Know Before You go

Who We Are

We proudly acknowledge that we are hosting this tournament on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. Read their message as they welcome the world for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Vancouver.

About the Land

City of Reconciliation

As a City of Reconciliation, our goals are grounded in right relations with the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, and respect for the priorities of urban Indigenous community members. Vancouver is also home to a large and diverse urban Indigenous population, representing many rich and distinct cultures, languages and traditions from territories and Nations across the continent.

How we show up

We are patient, respectful and aim to ensure everyone feels safe and supported. As one of Canada's most diverse cities, Vancouver welcomes visitors of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. We are committed to fostering an inclusive city where people of all races, cultures, religions, genders, sexual orientations and abilities feel valued and have a sense of belonging.

We support the full participation of people with disabilities by working to remove barriers and create accessible experiences for everyone.

Welcoming 2SLGBTQIA+

Vancouver is also home to the largest Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender diverse and queer (2SLGBTQIA+) community in Western Canada. The 2SLGBTQIA+ community is a significant presence throughout Vancouver, primarily centred along Davie Street in the West End.

Multiculturalism

While English and French are the official languages of Canada, Vancouver is home to a mix of different religions, ethnicities and cultural groups from across the world. Many neighbourhoods in Vancouver reflect the culture and ethnicity of the groups that first immigrated to the city in the 19th and 20th centuries, including Chinatown and Commercial Drive in East Vancouver (known as “Little Italy”).

Each summer, the city comes to life with an exciting program of special events with many celebrating the mosaic of cultures and communities across Vancouver.

We want all visitors to Vancouver to feel safe, valued and included while visiting the city this summer. We ask that visitors show patience, respect and understanding to ensure everyone feels safe and included during FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Stadium area context

Vancouver’s world-class stadium is located in a downtown urban setting, bordering neighbourhoods with deep histories, vibrant community life, and diverse lived realities. The Downtown Eastside (DTES) is one such community - a unique and historic part of the city known for its strong sense of community, cultural contributions, and commitment to social and economic inclusion. Like many communities, it continues to navigate complex social and health challenges related to poverty, mental health, and substance use, alongside sustained community led efforts focused on care, resilience, and opportunity.

This context informs Vancouver’s long-standing commitment to centre human rights in its policies, programs and day-to-day work. The Host City Human Rights Action Plan builds on this foundation by identifying thirteen focus areas that will be prioritized during the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Human Rights Action Plan