A test event for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to Vancouver Island next week, highlighted by the live stream of three games, including two with major tournament implications. (Image Credit: Dreamstime)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

the world game

FIFA World Cup test event coming to Vancouver Island

Mar 29, 2026 | 6:38 AM

NANAIMO — A few months ahead of kickoff of the world’s largest sporting event, FIFA is coming to Vancouver Island.

Hosted on the grounds of the provincial Legislature in downtown Victoria on Tuesday, March 31, three games will be streamed on a big screen, including a pair with major World Cup implications, among other festivities.

Beginning at 11:45 a.m., the Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Italy game will broadcast live from Zenica, with the winner advancing to the World Cup to face Canada in the tournament opener on June 12 in Toronto.

Following the first match, a 2 p.m. kickoff between Kosovo and Türkiye will take place, with the match to determine who advances to the World Cup to face Australia in group stage action in Vancouver on June 13.

The final match of the day will be a live stream from Toronto for an international friendly between Canada and Tunisia.

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Halftime entertainment is planned, along with appearances from FIFA World Cup mascots, dignitaries, and former men’s national team member Tosaint Ricketts.

Mini-pitch activities are also planned for kids to enjoy, with matches and other activities running from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The event is free to attend.

The FIFA World Cup is co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 through July 19, with Vancouver hosting seven matches.

After facing the winner of Bosnia and Herzegovina/Italy on June 12, the men’s team will move to BC Place in Vancouver for their other two group stage matchups against Qatar on June 18 and Switzerland on June 24.

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