A so-called sweetheart deal that will see taxpayers foot the bill for cost overruns related to Toronto’s 2026 FIFA World Cup games was not “made known” to the city’s elected officials before it was signed, according to a new report.
A letter written by the City Manager confirmed Tuesday that the deal with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE), which would see the city assume financial risk for the event, did not need council’s approval — and was binding.
“I think we’re a little worried that we might be on the hook for a fair amount of money here,” Councillor Paula Fletcher told CTV Toronto Tuesday. “If there’s cost overruns…MLSE doesn’t pay.”
This is gross negligence. The deal should be torn up.
The city is in a precarious financial situation and I see no benefit to lining the pockets of the wealthy with tax payer funds.
