TORONTO: As the FIFA World Cup 2026 gets underway across North America, thousands of Arab football fans are preparing to follow Iraq’s journey on football’s biggest stage.
For many, Toronto could become one of the tournament’s most welcoming destinations.
Tomorrow, Canada will kick off their campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium, marking the start of a six-week celebration of football in the country’s largest city. Toronto will host six matches during the tournament as supporters from around the world descend on the city.
For Arab fans, one fixture that stands out is Iraq’s clash with Senegal on June 26, which will bring the Lions of Mesopotamia to Toronto, giving supporters from across the Middle East a chance to follow their team in one of North America’s most multicultural cities.
The appeal of Toronto, however, extends well beyond matchday.
