Surrey Puts Forward Proposal for National Soccer Hub
The City of Surrey has formally responded to Canada Soccer’s request for expressions of interest to host a future National Training Centre a proposed legacy project connected to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The proposed facility would serve as a permanent high-performance base for Canada’s national soccer programs, supporting athlete training, coaching development, referee education, sports science and community engagement initiatives.
Mayor Says Surrey Is a “Natural Fit”
Mayor Brenda Locke said Surrey’s demographics, infrastructure and strong soccer culture make it an ideal candidate for the project.
According to the mayor, Surrey’s young and rapidly growing population, established soccer programs and access to major transportation corridors position the city as a strong contender for a world-class national facility.
What the Training Centre Would Offer
Canada Soccer’s vision for the National Training Centre includes:
- A permanent home for national team training
- Athlete development pathways
- Coach and referee education programs
- Sports science and performance research
- Community programming opportunities
The facility is expected to become a cornerstone legacy initiative linked to Canada’s role as a co-host of the 2026 World Cup.
Surrey Highlights Strategic Advantages
In its submission, the City outlined several key strengths:
- Availability of large potential development sites
- Central location within Metro Vancouver
- Access to major highways and transit routes
- A diverse and active soccer community
- Alignment with Surrey’s Economic and Sport Tourism strategies
City officials emphasized that the proposal aligns with Surrey’s long-term vision to grow as a sport tourism and talent development hub.
Early Stage of National Selection Process
Canada Soccer is currently reviewing preliminary submissions from communities across the country. This stage is designed to identify potential partners and suitable locations before any formal proposal process begins.
Surrey’s submission represents an early step in positioning the city as a host location and does not yet constitute a finalized agreement or approved project.
Looking Ahead
If selected, the National Training Centre would not only support Canada’s elite soccer athletes but also elevate Surrey’s profile nationally and internationally as a leading destination for sport development and high-performance training.
Further evaluation by Canada Soccer will determine which communities move forward in the next phase of planning.
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