To celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the City of Barrie is incorporating it's Game On! programming into a esports tournament ahead of the tournament.
The Game On! World Cup Esports Tournament will be held June 26, 2026, at Five Points Theatre, featuring online play and an on-stage final.
It's available for FIFA/EA Sports FC players aged 14 to 24 in Simcoe County, who must first get through municipal qualifiers , which will be held from May 29 to June 1.
“Esports is a powerful way to connect with youth and celebrate sport in new and exciting ways,” Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall said in a news release. “As we build momentum toward the FIFA World Cup 2026, this tournament showcases our region’s innovation, collaboration, and commitment to creating inclusive opportunities for young people.”
The City says the event is presented in partnership with Bradford West Gwillimbury, Collingwood, Innisfil, Orillia, Oro-Medonte, Penetanguishene and Tiny Township and is hosted virtually by online interactive gaming entertainment company We Got Game.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup opens on June 11 when Mexico plays South Africa in Mexico City. Canada opens its tournament against Bosnia and Herzegovina the next day in Toronto.
