World Cup 2026 drives surge in counterfeit soccer merchandise, officials say

Canadian and U.S. border law‑enforcement officials warned that the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is prompting a sharp rise in counterfeit soccer goods. A warehouse in Mississauga, Ontario, was seized with more than 16,000 fake jerseys, hats and flags, leading to two arrests in Toronto. Police described the operation as a large‑scale effort to exploit fans, and officials noted that U.S. authorities can destroy seized items while Canadian agencies can only hold them for ten days, with limited legal tools to shut down online sellers.

The tournament is overseen by Victor Montagliani, Canadian‑born CONCACAF president and FIFA vice‑president, whose Abruzzese heritage was highlighted in an Italian feature on his rise from local soccer clubs to the global governing body. Montagliani is also responsible for organizing the World Cup, which will be co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, featuring 48 national teams and expected revenues exceeding €9 billion.