The B.C. Lions have announced they will play two regular-season CFL games in Kelowna next summer, along with a pre-season contest in Langford, B.C., as the FIFA World Cup takes over B.C. Place in Vancouver.
The announcement came from Lions president Duane Vienneau during the second quarter of the team’s game against the Toronto Argonauts in Vancouver. He said playing games outside of B.C. “just didn’t feel right,” emphasizing the importance of keeping home games within the province when possible.
Vancouver’s B.C. Place and Toronto’s BMO Field will host a total of 13 matches during the men’s World Cup, which will take place across Canada, the United States, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. Vancouver will stage seven matches, including Canada’s group games on June 18 and 24, a round-of-32 match on July 2, and a round-of-16 contest on July 7. Toronto will host six games.
FIFA will take control of both stadiums 30 days before the first matches, preventing regular use for sports events during that time. This scheduling challenge has led CFL teams to find alternative locations for their home games.
The CFL previously announced that the Toronto Argonauts will play their home games at Hamilton Stadium, Mosaic Stadium in Regina, and Winnipeg’s Princess Auto Stadium while B.C. Place is unavailable.
The Lions’ decision to host two regular-season games in Kelowna keeps the team connected to its B.C. fan base and provides fans outside Vancouver the opportunity to attend live CFL action. The pre-season match in Langford adds further accessibility for supporters on Vancouver Island.
Fans in Kelowna can expect the full CFL game-day experience, with opportunities to see the Lions face off against league opponents in a city that has seen growing interest in football. Team officials are coordinating with local authorities and stadium management to ensure the events meet league standards and provide a safe, enjoyable environment for attendees.
Vienneau stressed that the Lions are committed to maintaining a strong presence in the province while navigating scheduling challenges caused by the World Cup. The team views the temporary move as a chance to engage with fans in new locations while still keeping the focus on British Columbia.
This arrangement highlights how major sporting events, such as the FIFA World Cup, can impact domestic leagues, requiring flexibility and advance planning. It also offers a unique opportunity for smaller cities like Kelowna to host professional sports events of national significance.
The CFL season will continue to run on its regular schedule, with the Lions returning to B.C. Place once the stadium is available after the World Cup. The team’s strategy ensures continuity for players, staff, and fans while adapting to temporary changes in venue availability.
By taking games to Kelowna and Langford, the B.C. Lions are demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to providing access to professional football across British Columbia. These games will allow fans in regions outside Vancouver to experience live CFL action and support their team in person.
The Lions’ schedule adjustments reflect the broader impact of hosting international events, showing how leagues can work together with local governments and stadium authorities to maintain the integrity of the season. Fans are encouraged to plan ahead for tickets and travel as the team confirms specific match dates and opponents.
This move also reinforces the B.C. Lions’ focus on community engagement. By bringing games to Kelowna, the team strengthens ties with local supporters and encourages new fans to connect with Canadian football. The pre-season match in Langford offers additional opportunities for youth programs, local schools, and football enthusiasts to interact with the team.
The upcoming CFL season promises excitement as the Lions navigate a unique schedule shaped by the World Cup. Fans in Kelowna and Langford will have the rare chance to watch professional football in their own cities, highlighting the team’s dedication to inclusivity and regional outreach.
The B.C. Lions’ plans underscore how sports organizations can adapt to global events while maintaining connections with their local fan base. The temporary relocation of home games provides an example of flexibility, innovation, and commitment to fan engagement, ensuring that supporters across B.C. can enjoy live CFL action despite major scheduling challenges.
