The first thing you notice when you walk into B.C. Place for the World Cup is the smell. That terrible, musty mix of cat urine and mould, undoubtedly from air disturbed after decades of work under the stadium, is finally gone. B.C. Place smells nice again.
Renovations and Upgrades
Don Hardman, FIFA’s executive director of stadium and venue management, said the upgrades and fresh coats of paint make the stadium feel like a new house. A media tour on Monday showcased trimmed grass, finished countertops, and final adjustments to new seating areas. The renovations total up to $185 million, including operational costs.
New Signage
A new signage system features gold letters on a maroon background, covering wayfinding, section numbers, and more. The signs are visible inside SkyTrain stations and throughout the stadium.
VIP Hospitality Areas
Two new VIP areas have been constructed. The eastern corner area offers a view of False Creek for regular VIPs, with seating and a lounge. The central hospitality area on the western side, for VVIPs like heads of state and celebrities, features fancy seating, a dining area, and direct entry from Robson Street.
Natural Grass Surface
FIFA has installed a natural grass surface for the seven matches, which will be replaced by artificial turf afterward. The temporary pitch has a gentle slope at each end, and players will step up to enter the field.
Roof and Weather
The roof will likely remain closed for all matches to maintain consistency, though evening games like Turkiye vs. Australia on a predicted 27°C day could be steamy. Hardman stated, “Right now, it’s very likely staying closed.”
Food and Beverage
About three-quarters of food options remain the same as for Whitecaps or Lions games, with additional options from FIFA sponsors. Non-alcoholic drinks will be Coca-Cola products.
For more details, read the full article on entry rules and spectator routes.
