Vancouver is set to host seven matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the rising cost of the event has become one of the city’s biggest local debates.

Updated estimates now put the price tag at up to between $532 and $624 million, up from earlier projections of $483 to $581 million.

The Canada Pulse Insights Poll, commissioned by CityNews, found most Metro Vancouver residents think hosting the tournament will benefit the city, despite the cost.

According to the survey, 63 per cent of locals say the cost is worth it, even as expenses continue to rise.

The province says those costs will be partially offset by an estimated $1 billion in economic benefits, largely from tourism and international exposure.

More than $170 million of the spending is tied to upgrades at BC Place, including a temporary natural grass field, a new video scoreboard, and other FIFA-required improvements.

Still, critics question whether hosting seven matches is a wise investment, especially as fans face concerns about high ticket prices.

“The public expects these projects to be run with some kind of accountability, so they’re sending a very clear fiscal warning: no overruns or you may have to answer to it in the next election,” said Canada Pulse CEO John Wright.

With less than a year to go until kickoff, questions about cost, accountability, and who ultimately benefits continue.