Item - 2025.EX20.19

The Executive Committee recommends that:

1. City Council authorize the City Manager and the Executive Director, World Cup Hosting 2026, to negotiate and enter into agreements with FIFA exclusive contracted vendors providing services to host cities, including agreements related to the hospitality sales program, venue decoration/dressing, signage and other services specified by FIFA for the purposes of delivering FIFA World Cup 2026, provided that:

a. the City Manager and the Executive Director, World Cup Hosting 2026 have determined that the agreement is necessary to meet the requirements of the FIFA Host City Agreement;

b. agreements do not conflict with the previously Council approved FIFA World Cup 2026 Procurement Plan; 

c. City staff make all efforts to advance the FIFA World Cup 2026 Community Workforce Development Program;

d. the costs are eligible for, and will be funded through the approved FIFA World Cup 2026 Toronto budget subject to the annual Budget Process;

e. the City Manager and the Executive Director, FIFA World Cup Hosting 2026 report quarterly on this authorization (for information) back to the Executive Committee, through the FIFA World Cup 2026 Subcommittee; and

f. the terms and conditions are satisfactory to the City Manager and the Executive Director, World Cup Hosting 2026, and in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor.

As we approach the final stretch leading to the FIFA World Cup 2026, it’s critical that Toronto is equipped to meet its obligations as a host city. With less than 18 months to go, the ability to execute agreements with FIFA’s exclusive vendors in a timely manner is essential to staying on track and delivering an event that meets both FIFA’s standards and our city’s expectations. This motion ensures that City staff have the authority to act quickly where necessary, while remaining firmly aligned with Council-approved plans, advancing community workforce opportunities, and maintaining transparency and accountability through regular reporting.