Host cities in Canada and the U.S. have committed over $1 billion in public funds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Municipal governments are implementing sweeping bylaw changes, including noise and waste policy exemptions, to meet strict FIFA requirements.
Critics note that local infrastructure and social programs often face funding deficits while massive budgets are unlocked for global mega-events.
The ability of cities to accelerate regulatory processes for corporate interests highlights that municipal inaction is often a matter of political choice.