World Cup to cost Canadian taxpayers over $1B: watchdog report

VIDEO: The countdown to the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is on with Canada set to co-host the tournament for the first time ever. According to the country’s federal budget watchdog, the price tag for taxpayers will come in at over one billion dollars. The Parliamentary Budget Officer released it’s analysis of costs Wednesday. While the billion dollar expense might seem jarring, some economists say that shouldn’t come as a surprise and there is some economic benefit to be had. Beyond that, sports management experts say mega-events like this can have major social impacts that extend well beyond the final whistle.