Toronto could pursue regional paramedic model amid expected uptick in emergency calls during World Cup

One of four giant LCD screens located around the pitch at BMO Field is shown as part of the stadium’s upgrades ahead of hosting six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Toronto, Ont., March 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Eduardo Lima

Toronto could rely on paramedics from neighbouring municipalities as it prepares for a significant increase in emergency call volume during the FIFA World Cup.

A staff report that will be considered by Toronto’s World Cup subcommittee on Tuesday proposes the adoption of a “an integrated regional paramedic response model” for “10 high demand event days” during the World Cup.

Under the plan, staff say that paramedics from Peel, York and Durham regions would be deployed near municipal boundaries and be able to respond to “all emergency call priorities within two kilometres of Toronto’s municipal boundaries” as well as elsewhere within the City of Toronto, as required.

“Activation will be guided by demand forecasting and real-time system monitoring to ensure resources are positioned where they are most needed,” the staff report notes. “This time-limited strategy will help to preserve city-wide emergency medical coverage, balance frontline staff workload, and strengthen inter-regional system resilience.”

The staff report notes that with 230,000 additional daily visitors expected in Toronto during the World Cup, there will be “increased demand on the medical emergency response system and transportation networks.”

“As a result, Toronto Paramedic Services is seeking to implement an integrated regional paramedic response model to maintain uninterrupted emergency medical service delivery during the FWC26,” the staff report notes.

Staff say that the cost of implementing the regional paramedic response model is approximately $800,000 and is covered by the existing $7.9 million budget for paramedic services during the tournament.