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CP24: Weather
Toronto braces for heat as fans flood downtown ahead of FIFA match
By Victor Argenta
Posted Mon July 2, 2026, 7:00 AM EST
TORONTO – It's shaping up to be a scorcher in the city today, with temperatures expected to reach a high of 30°C, feeling closer to 35°C with the humidity.
The day will start warm and sunny, with temperatures climbing steadily through the afternoon. By 1:00 PM, the mercury will hover around 28°C, and peak heat is expected between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, just as fans gather across the city to watch Canada face off against Argentina in the FIFA World Cup final at 5:00 PM.
Clear skies and calm winds are expected throughout the evening, offering ideal conditions for outdoor viewing — but health officials are reminding fans to take precautions as the heat sets in. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade when needed," said a Toronto Public Health spokesperson. "Whether you're heading to BMO Field, Nathan Phillips Square, or catching the game on a patio, be heat-smart today."
The UV index will be high, and many of the city’s public viewing areas — including Yonge-Dundas Square, Harbourfront Centre, and Ontario Place — are already beginning to fill. Transit authorities report increased GO Train and TTC service throughout the afternoon and into the evening to accommodate the large crowds.
CityNews Article
Toronto buzzes ahead of Canada's final world cup match at BMO Field
Published: Monday, July 2, 2026 | 12:00 PM
Toronto is electric ahead of today’s historic FIFA World Cup 2026 match at BMO Field, where Team Canada will face off against Argentina in what is likely their final group stage game — and the last match of the tournament to be played in Toronto.
With kickoff set for 5:00 PM, thousands of fans have already packed into the downtown core, many arriving early to secure spots at public viewing zones like Nathan Phillips Square, Yonge-Dundas Square, Harbourfront Centre, and Ontario Place. Several downtown patios and sports bars are already full, with lineups expected to grow throughout the afternoon.
Although the 2026 FIFA World Cup is jointly hosted by Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, Toronto will not host any matches beyond the early rounds. The finals, quarterfinals, and semifinals will be held in larger U.S. stadiums, with MetLife Stadium in New Jersey widely expected to host the Final. In Toronto, today marks the final game scheduled in the city, making it a special moment for local fans and the city at large.
GO Transit and TTC are both reporting high ridership, with extra trains and service running, though standard fares remain in effect. Commuters are advised to expect delays and heavy foot traffic, especially around Union Station, Lakeshore Blvd, and Exhibition Place.
Officials are urging attendees to stay hydrated, dress for the heat, and expect longer-than-normal security screening and congestion at public venues. Temperatures are expected to hover around 30°C through the evening, with clear skies expected throughout kickoff and into the night.
Today’s matchup isn’t just a soccer game — it’s a cultural celebration. Whether watching from the stands, a local pub, or a public screen, fans are ready to make the most of Toronto’s final match on the global stage.
Map showing BMO Field - the venue for tonight's match:
CBC News
Canada's final FIFA match in Toronto: Where to watch & viewing tips
Published: Monday, July 2, 2026 | 12:45 PM
Where to Watch
City officials and FIFA organizers have coordinated a number of official public fan zones for those without tickets. Key locations include: a) Nathan Phillips Square: Toronto’s largest and most iconic fan zone, with big screens, food vendors, and capacity for up to 10,000 people, b) Yonge-Dundas Square: A more central option in the heart of the city, already filling up as of mid-day, c) Harbourfront Centre & Ontario Place: Along the waterfront near the stadium, both spots are drawing large early crowds, d) The Bentway: A trendy alternative beneath the Gardiner Expressway, offering a shaded space with food trucks and live music pre-show. Scotiabank Arena is also hosting an indoor watch party, with large-screen coverage for invited guests and corporate partners. Many bars and restaurants across King West, the Entertainment District, and Front Street are already reporting full reservations and limited walk-in availability.
Transit and crowd expectations
Toronto police and transit officials say they expect more than 150,000 people to be downtown by late afternoon. In response. GO Transit is running enhanced train service on all major corridors, including extra Lakeshore West and East trains arriving at Union Station through the afternoon. TTC has added capacity to key subway lines and streetcar routes. Normal fares apply, and riders are encouraged to load Presto cards in advance. Road closures are in place around BMO Field, Exhibition Place, and portions of Bay and Front Street. Police are urging drivers to avoid the downtown core if possible.
Tips for a good viewing experience
Arrive early: Most fan zones will be begin filling up early. If you’re planning to watch from Nathan Phillips Square or Harbourfront, expect to be screened upon entry. Hydrate and dress for weather: The forecast is warm and sunny — perfect for game day but bring sunscreen and water. Bring patience: “This is going to be an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime day,” said Toronto Mayor [Name], “but with that comes a lot of people, movement, and noise. Please be courteous and look out for one another.”
Downtown offices busier than usual
Take a quick walk downtown and you will feel an energy in the air. We've heard from many colleagues that offices are much more full than usual. It seems that many employees came into downtown offices today, taking advantage of the chance to be close to fan zones and viewing spots after work. This is a far cry from the pandemic days. In fact, the downtown financial core is about as packed as we have ever seen it!
Stay tuned to CP24 throughout the day for rolling updates, crowd conditions, and additional coverage.
Map of various venues showing today's match at 5:00 PM:
Social Media
Larry Guth @larry.normal - Jul 2
Union is insane right now. It’s only 1pm and you’d think the match already started. Shoulder-to-shoulder in this heat 🥵. Good luck if you’re trying to get on a train. #FIFA2026 #Toronto
City of Toronto @cityoftoronto - Jul 2
Today’s a big day, Toronto 🇨🇦⚽! Thousands are expected downtown to cheer on #TeamCanada at #FIFA2026. Please plan ahead, use public transit, and stay safe in the heat. Free public viewing areas:
✔️ Nathan Phillips Sq
✔️ Yonge-Dundas Sq
✔️ Harbourfront
✔️ Ontario Place
#TOFIFA #Toronto
CP24 @CP24 - Jul 2
BREAKING: Environment Canada says: ⚠️ Heat warning in effect for the GTA. Expect highs over 30°C with minimal relief tonight. Stay hydrated if you're watching the big match outdoors. #ONStorm #FIFA2026 #TorontoHeat
Toronto Police Operations @TPSOperations - Jul 2
🚨TRAFFIC ADVISORY:
Toronto Police are anticipating significant congestion downtown today due to FIFA World Cup festivities.
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Expect road closures near BMO Field, Lake Shore Blvd, Union Station, and public gathering areas like Nathan Phillips Square and Ontario Place
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Consider using public transit.
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Officers will be deployed throughout the downtown core to ensure public safety.
#TorontoTraffic #FIFAToronto #RoadClosures #PlanAhead
TOGal @to.Gal - Jul 2
@canadacheers
This city is BUZZING 🇨🇦🔥 Feels like the whole country is in Toronto right now. Can’t wait for kickoff at 5pm. Go #TeamCanada! #FIFA2026 #TOFinalMatch
TTC Alerts @TTC.Alerts - Jul 2
Busy day ahead! Expect increased crowds at Union, Bloor-Yonge, and Exhibition stations due to #FIFA2026 traffic. Plan extra travel time. Hydrate and be patient! #TTC #TorontoTransit
GO Transit @GoTransitalerts - Jul 2
📣 It’s a big day in Toronto! With thousands expected downtown for the 5PM Canada vs. Argentina FIFA World Cup match at BMO Field, GO Transit is running additional train service on the Lakeshore West and East lines this afternoon. Regular fares apply. 🏟️⚽➡️ Plan ahead: some stations may experience crowding.🕐 #FIFAToronto #GOTrain #TorontoEvents #CanadaSoccer
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