Thousands of fans from Iraq and Senegal converged on downtown Toronto on June 26, 2026, ahead of their World Cup match, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The event, covered live by CP24.com Staff, saw supporters marching through the streets, waving flags, and chanting songs in a display of national pride.
Fan March and Atmosphere
The march began in the early morning hours, with fans gathering at designated meeting points before proceeding through major downtown thoroughfares. Police were on hand to manage crowds and ensure safety, as the number of participants swelled into the thousands. Many fans wore team jerseys and painted their faces in national colors, adding to the festive mood.
According to CP24.com Staff, the march was peaceful and celebratory, with fans from both nations mingling and sharing their excitement for the match. Local businesses reported increased foot traffic, and restaurants and bars in the area prepared for a busy day.
World Cup Context and Canada's Performance
The Iraq vs. Senegal match is part of the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada is co-hosting alongside the United States and Mexico. Canada's national team has already made headlines, advancing to the knockout round after a 2-1 loss to Switzerland in their final group stage game. Despite the loss, Canada's performance has been praised by analysts, with CTV National News noting 'tons to celebrate for Canada.'
Canada's Promise David scored the team's first goal against Switzerland, closing the gap to 2-1. The team's group stage performance has energized soccer fans across the country, particularly in cities like Brampton, where a special viewing event was held.
Impact on Toronto
The influx of fans has brought a significant economic boost to downtown Toronto, with hotels, restaurants, and retail stores seeing increased demand. The city's public transit system reported higher-than-usual ridership, and additional services were added to accommodate the crowds.
Local authorities have urged fans to continue celebrating responsibly and to respect public spaces. The event underscores Toronto's role as a diverse and welcoming host city for the World Cup.
