Port Alberni, British Columbia, is working to become an official FIFA 2026 Team Base Camp (training base), but local leaders are raising concerns about how to pay for the necessary upgrades. The community is hoping to host international teams for pre-tournament training at local facilities before the global tournament begins on June 11, 2026.
The plan involves using Bob Dailey Stadium as the training pitch and the Best Western Barclay Hotel for accommodations. According to the Alberni Valley News, the local organizing committee is also proposing a legacy project — the International Sports & Cultural Institute — in partnership with the Hupacasath First Nation.
While the City of Port Alberni has expressed support in principle, it has not committed municipal funds and has asked the committee to confirm significant outside fundraising before advancing capital planning and procurement. FIFA Canada officials visited Port Alberni on July 3, 2025 to assess training amenities, athlete accommodations and to review FIFA requirements, including pitch standards, security and other operational considerations.
Supporters say hosting a Team Base Camp could bring tourism and lasting soccer infrastructure to the Alberni Valley, pointing to precedents such as infrastructure and economic benefits tied to previous large international events. However, the Victoria Times Colonist has reported that Port Alberni is competing with other regions to attract teams, and the lack of a clear budget or named major sponsor remains a major hurdle for the community.
