AFC Toronto Divides 2026 Season Between BMO Field and York Lions Stadium
AFC Toronto has announced an exciting plan for the 2026 season, scheduling home matches at two venues: BMO Field and York Lions Stadium. This initiative will see the club play a portion of its games at the York University campus while showcasing marquee fixtures at the iconic BMO Field.
AFC Toronto’s Venue Strategy for 2026
The decision comes as AFC Toronto prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The club will utilize York Lions Stadium for matches during the tournament, which runs from June 12 to July 2, 2026. BMO Field, meanwhile, will host key games both before and after the World Cup event.
Impact on Local Sports
This dual-venue approach marks a significant step in the growth of AFC Toronto. It also impacts other sports teams in the area. The Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts will face scheduling challenges due to the World Cup. They are expected to play three home games outside of Toronto:
- Mosaic Stadium, Regina against the Roughriders
- Hamilton Stadium against the Tiger-Cats
- Princess Auto Stadium, Winnipeg against the Blue Bombers
Achievements and Future Goals
The announcement follows a remarkable season for AFC Toronto. The club secured the inaugural NSL Supporters’ Shield, finishing with a commendable 16-3-6 record. In the semi-finals, they triumphed over Montreal Roses FC with a dominant 6-1 aggregate score.
CEO Helena Ruken emphasized the club’s commitment to growth. “Our game and our community keep growing,” she stated. “This move is about matching that ambition—giving our players and supporters a bigger stage.”
To enhance fan engagement, AFC Toronto has launched 2026 season memberships. These memberships include priority access to seating, exclusive events, early playoff ticketing, and preferred pricing across both venues.
Community Support and Future Ambitions
Chris Shewfelt, Vice President of Business Operations at MLSE, highlighted the success of the inaugural NSL season. “The expansion of AFC Toronto’s schedule at BMO Field next season is vital for the club’s exposure and future growth,” he said.
AFC Toronto’s first season saw over 14,500 fans at BMO Field, creating a thrilling atmosphere. With a championship opportunity on the horizon, the team will face Vancouver Rise FC in the NSL Final at BMO Field, aiming to cap off a remarkable debut campaign.
