Toronto cancels major FIFA World Cup watch party due to extreme heat

If you were planning to watch Thursday's FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match between Portugal and Croatia at Nathan Phillips Square, you'll need to make other plans.

The City of Toronto has cancelled the free public watch party less than 24 hours before the match, citing the extreme heat and the resources required to safely host the event.

"We understand that this is disappointing for many, but the decision was made due to the extreme heat forecast & the demand on resources to ensure the safety of all," the city said in a post on social media.

Announcement: The July 2 FIFA World Cup broadcast at Nathan Phillips Square has been cancelled. We understand that this is disappointing for many, but the decision was made due to the extreme heat forecast & the demand on resources to ensure the safety of all.

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— City of Toronto 🇨🇦 (@cityoftoronto) July 2, 2026

Environment Canada is forecasting a high of 34 C on Thursday, with the humidex making it feel closer to 44 C. There's also a 40 per cent chance of thunderstorms in the middle of the afternoon.

The late cancellation left many fans frustrated, especially since the extreme heat had been in the forecast for several days.

"The 'extreme heat'? It has always been above 30 C in the summer in Toronto. This city is so embarrassing…" one person wrote on social media.

"Why not allocate resources to set up a few medical tents, water stations and some shade? This is absolutely pathetic," another user wrote.

Nathan Phillips Square has been one of Toronto's most popular free viewing locations for locals and international supporters during the FIFA World Cup.

Thursday's Portugal-Croatia matchup is expected to be Toronto's biggest World Cup game yet, with both countries boasting large communities across the Greater Toronto Area.

It could also mark the final World Cup appearance for one of soccer's two greatest players: Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo and Croatia's Luka Modrić.

Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo could play his final FIFA World Cup game on Thursday night in Toronto. (Maria Lysaker/Imagn Images)

If you're still hoping to watch the match outdoors, there are several free viewing locations that haven't been cancelled, including STACKT Market, Evergreen Brick Works and Canada Soccer House at Harbourfront Centre.

Just be sure to give yourself enough travel time ahead of the match, and most importantly, bring water and sunscreen.