Here’s an early look at BMO Field’s World Cup upgrades. What do you think?

Construction is underway at BMO Field as the city prepares to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

An early look at construction underway at BMO Field ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is giving Toronto soccer fans a first glimpse at how the stadium is changing — prompting mixed reviews online.

Footage captured this week by Chopper 24 shows work progressing at the venue as crews prepare to expand the stadium for the international tournament this summer.

Images circulating online have also offered preliminary views of new temporary grandstands, with some fans raising questions about sightlines and safety.

The renovations are part of a major transformation of the waterfront stadium as Toronto prepares to host six matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Inside BMO Field’s World Cup upgrades

Last March, FIFA, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment and City of Toronto officials announced $146 million in upgrades to BMO Field aimed at improving stadium infrastructure, technology and the overall fan experience.

• $146 million earmarked to upgrade Toronto’s BMO Field ahead of 2026 World Cup

For the tournament, capacity will increase to more than 45,000 seats. Plans include adding about 10,000 temporary seats on the north grandstand and another 7,000 on the south side.

Toronto FC officials say safety has been central to the design and construction process.

“Well, first, a lot goes into ensuring safety, and that’s first and foremost. With this, we worked with global leaders in stadium construction, stadium temporary construction, in order to build these stands,” said Chris Shewfelt, vice president of business operations for Toronto FC on Thursday.

“These are the same groups that did the Paris Olympics. They’ve done golf tournaments across the U.S. every single week.”

Shewfelt noted temporary stands have been used at the stadium before.

“I’ll remind everybody, this is not the first time we’ve constructed temporary stands at BMO field. I think back to great memories like the 2016 Grey Cup, MLS Cup and the centennial classic that happened had similar temporary seats.”

Construction remains on schedule for the venue to be handed over to FIFA in May, he added.

Toronto will host six World Cup matches beginning June 12, 2026 — marking the first men’s FIFA World Cup game ever played on Canadian soil. During the tournament, BMO Field will be temporarily renamed “Toronto Stadium.”

• Toronto FIFA match among five most requested World Cup games in ticket draw

We want to hear from you

As construction continues and early visuals of the project continue to emerge, we want to know what Torontonians think.

• What are your thoughts on the early images or Chopper 24 footage of the stadium renovations?
• Do you have questions or concerns about the temporary seating?
• Do you have tickets to watch a World Cup game from the new temporary seats? Are you concerned about sightlines and the overall experience?
• Are you excited about the upgrades or the city hosting World Cup matches?

If you’re a Toronto FC fan or planning to attend World Cup games in 2026, tell us how you feel about the changes.

Share your story by emailing us at [e-mail] with your name, general location, and phone number in case we want to follow up. Your comments may be used in a future story.