There is a short survey at the end of this post asking what you think about Burlington hosting a one-day FIFA caravan event.
What is it with municipal officials and entertainment events?
I’m asking myself this question again in light of a recent Inside Halton article about a proposed 1-day event in support of the FIFA 2026 World Cup.
To be clear, what is being proposed for Burlington isn’t a soccer match. That distinction, unfortunately, belongs to larger cities and venues in Toronto and Vancouver. No, what we may get is a “fan experience event” as part of a caravan tour. When asked for additional details about what this may include, an official indicated it might be “viewing party, live music and a soccer-themed program for youth”. Oh joy!! All this for $160,000.
As reported, several local Councillors were ebullient in their delight and enthusiasm. Why, Councillor Bentivegna, is even reported as saying this event “will put Burlington on the map”. I’m not sure why the Councillor thinks that a one-day event will have such an extraordinary impact that it will elevate Burlington’s profile to such stratospheric heights, but that’s another issue for another day.
Colour me Unimpressed
Admittedly, despite my British ancestry, I am not a soccer fan. For me, watching soccer is the sporting equivalent of watching paint dry. Golf and curling are infinitely more exciting. Maybe it has something to do with the low scores or the fact that most of the action seems to take place in midfield. Who knows.
Here’s what I do know: politicians who hang their hat on one event, one project, or one undertaking as somehow life-altering and having such a significant, overriding impact are invariably doomed to disappointment and consign the rest of us to pay for it.
I have nothing against providing cultural, sporting or social activities for children. That is part of a society’s commitment to educating youth and providing meaningful developmental experiences. I have nothing against public venues, parks, and recreational facilities where citizens can participate in sports or enjoy recreational pursuits. Those who pay taxes should receive something for their efforts. I also believe we have an obligation to provide services such as libraries and historical sites to enhance and educate the general public. Where do we draw the line? When do we get to say “enough is enough”?
One and done isn’t impactful.
The event being contemplated for Burlington is a one-day activity. In other words, it is “one and done”. It may bring in some revenue, but at what cost?
Few details were provided on how many visitors are expected. We understand the event will occur at Spencer Smith Park. However, we have no idea how many police will be required to maintain order, how many roads will be closed, what additional bus services will be needed to transport spectators, or what additional services or facilities are expected. All we know is that it will cost at least $160K, and you and I are expected to ante up. Moreover, are all these ancillary costs included in the $160K? Again, details are scarce. The fact that the funding comes from a surplus is supposed to ease the angst.
All this for a one-day event which, as Councillor Bentivegna opines, will put Burlington “on the map”. I doubt many soccer enthusiasts visiting Canada will make the trek to Burlington for this. Their response, and dare I blame them, likely approximates something between “who cares” and “why bother”.
As a taxpayer, I’d rather these monies go towards providing something of more substantive, tangible value to our citizens over a longer timeframe. If FIFA wants to host an event, let them pay for it in its entirety. After all, they are the ones who derive the lasting benefits, including publicity for their brand and the World Cup itself.
Any business or enterprise contemplating a major expenditure for an event conducts a benefit/cost analysis to determine whether the undertaking warrants the expenditure or commitment. Before jumping on the FIFA bandwagon, perhaps our city officials should contain their glee and crunch the numbers before committing to something with a substantial price tag and dubious benefits. Ah, but that would imply resolute financial stewardship. Given the recently approved 2026 municipal budget with yet another increase well in excess of the inflation rate, I’m guessing that quality is in short supply at City Hall.
Focus Burlington used Reddit to ask “Is this a good idea”. Here are a few of the comments.
| “It’s a chance for Burlington to build its profile in the GTA — generate tourism?” Burlington infrastructure can’t even handle the citizens of Burlington let alone a sudden influx from GTA. Also, why are we raising taxes annually when there is a 6+ figure surplus? |
| FIFA is a thoroughly corrupt organization handing out fake peace prizes to the moron in charge of our neighbour to the south. I dislike that any events are being held in Canada at all and don’t feel any taxpayer dollars from Burlington or anywhere else should be used in promoting or staging any of their events. Now I’m not a soccer fan so I’m probably biased, but I’d say the same thing about the Olympics, minus the fake peace prize of course. |
| Are these surplus funds money collected from our taxes? Can’t wrap my head around having extra money while having to raise taxes at the same time. |
| Hell no. Would much rather a form of Sound of Music. |
| Love how they can say “predicted surplus” and then the next week it’s “tax hike” |
| Or we could just never have our city associated with FIFA in any capacity. That’d be nice too. |
| 160K for this but skip funding for SOM a multi day event which probably brings multiple days of tourism $$ and has been a Burlington feature for as long as I can remember. |
| It’s a one time event. When’s World Cup soccer going to come to Canada again? |
| I am a soccer fan and I hate the fact FIFA is an incredible corrupt organization, Canadian tax payers shouldn’t have to contribute anything to WC |
| Or we could just never have our city associatied with FIFA in any capacity. That’d be nice too. |
| I would support this only if I too can be awarded a FIFA peace medal. |
| Sounds like fun! Burlington is such a soccer city I can imagine loads of kids and families could really enjoy this. |
| Why is it some members of this council don’t understand the difference between ‘Nice to have” & “Must have” initiatives? We are in extremely difficult times, they are raising taxes each year. STOP SPENDING OUR MONEY ON NON PRIORITIES. |
| I’d support this if Mayor Ward gets an inaugural FIFA peace prize. |
What do you think?
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