The Ontario government is tightening the screws on illegal ticket resellers as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches. Starting June 10, the maximum fine for selling tickets above their original face value will more than double, from $10,000 to $25,000 for individuals or businesses violating the Ticket Sales Act, 2017.
New Penalties and Public Shaming
The province announced Thursday that it is amending the legislation to allow for public identification of ticketing businesses that have been penalized. Guilty businesses will be added to Ontario’s Consumer Beware List, a public registry of companies with a history of violations. Additionally, non-compliant businesses may face compliance orders or charges that could result in court-ordered fines of up to $50,000 for individuals and $250,000 for corporations if found guilty.
Government's Stance
“We’re delivering on our promise to bring in bold enforcement measures that crack down on resellers who exploit fans and drive up costs for families,” said Stephen Crawford, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement. “By increasing penalties and holding offenders publicly accountable, we’re helping ensure Ontarians can attend the events they love without worrying about being ripped off by exploitative resellers.”
Sport Minister Neil Lumsden emphasized the importance of fair access to tickets: “Live sporting events create unforgettable experiences for fans, families, and communities. These measures will help ensure tickets are available to the people who want to be in the stands cheering on their favourite teams and athletes, rather than being snapped up by unfair price gouging.”
Timing and Context
The new fine structure takes effect on June 10, just two days before the first FIFA World Cup match in Toronto. This move addresses longstanding concerns about skyrocketing resale ticket prices and shady practices in the secondary market. The Ontario government has been under pressure to protect consumers from price gouging, especially with the World Cup drawing massive crowds to Toronto’s stadium, temporarily renamed from BMO Field.
Earlier reports indicated that ticket prices for Canada's World Cup matches have been fluctuating, with some late bargains emerging as kickoff approaches. However, the province’s crackdown aims to prevent scalpers from exploiting fans and driving up costs unfairly.
