With just a month to go before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Premier David Eby has unveiled some of the upgrades made to BC Place.
One of the renovations is the installation of a hybrid sod-grass pitch, which is replacing the artificial turf used by both the Vancouver Whitecaps and BC Lions.
Eby points out that the grass turf used was grown in Abbotsford.
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Other upgrades include new hospitality and event spaces, accessibility improvements, and a permanent merchandise store.
Eby says all renovations are on track to be completed on time and within the estimate shown in this year’s provincial government.
He didn’t share figures on the total cost of the event, but said firm figures will be coming by the end of the month.
The premier didn’t discuss what is in store for the Whitecaps, with questions remaining about the team’s future ever since a Las Vegas group led by billionaire business leader Grant Gustavson said it had submitted a bid to purchase the team. Last week, Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon said a local group was planning to make a bid, but didn’t provide many details about the viability or legitimacy of the prospect.
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Meanwhile, the province is set to meet with key stakeholders on Wednesday to discuss what it’s going to take to keep the ‘Caps in Vancouver.
BC Place will host seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, with the first one on June 13.