By: Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice
Chatham-Kent soccer fans could be in for a unique experience next summer.
That’s because officials are hoping to bring FIFA Canada’s Caravan to Chatham-Kent as part of the 2026 World Cup event.
Chatham-Kent council approved spending $50,000 to apply for the honour of hosting a caravan celebration with the intent of integrating the experience into the multi-cultural Taste of Chatham-Kent festival.
The caravan is a Canada-wide initiative that will take the FIFA show on the road to various cities across the nation, including 15 in Ontario. It will include soccer-themed activities, on-stage entertainment, sponsorship opportunities and the screening of a World Cup soccer match.
According to Audrey Ansell, Chatham-Kent’s director of community attraction and promotion, the municipality will learn in shortly if it makes the cut.
The multi-cultural Taste of Chatham-Kent event normally includes a soccer tournament held in conjunction with the Chatham Portuguese Club. Ansell said next year’s events will build on that partnership with activities taking place in Chatham’s Tecumseh Park.
The FIFA World Cup takes place every four years with Canada, Mexico and the United States hosting in 2026.
Council also approved spending an additional $25,000 to deliver the service if approved.
