The press conference was held at Canada Soccer's national stadium in Toronto, marking a significant moment for Canadian football. Minister of Sport Kirsten Duncan formally announced the federal government's support in principle for the United 2026 joint bid to host the FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico.

The tournament would be historic as the first to feature 48 national teams, up from the traditional 32. Canadian Soccer Association Secretary General Peter Montopoli highlighted that Canada has hosted every FIFA youth World Cup in existence, making the senior tournament the only remaining milestone.

Representatives from Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, and Montreal voiced unified backing for the bid, emphasizing a pan-Canadian effort rather than a single-city push. Speakers repeatedly pointed to Canada's multicultural population as a unique asset, noting that in Toronto every team at the World Cup effectively becomes a home side.

The event also featured an indigenous elder's blessing, underscoring the bid's stated commitment to reconciliation and showcasing indigenous culture on a global stage.

The press conference held at Canada's national soccer stadium focused on the federal government's announcement of support for the United 2026 bid — a joint Canada-USA-Mexico project to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Minister of Sport Kirstin Duncan highlighted the historic nature of the tournament, which would mark the first-ever multi-country hosting and expand the field from 32 to 48 teams.

Officials emphasized the cultural, social, and economic benefits for Canada, as well as an opportunity to promote and involve indigenous communities. Toronto City Councillor Mark Grimes and Canadian Soccer Association General Secretary Peter Montagliani pointed to Canada's strong track record of hosting FIFA youth and women's tournaments, with Montagliani noting that Canada has hosted every FIFA World Cup format except the men's flagship event.

Members of Parliament underscored Toronto's unique multicultural character, where fans support multiple teams throughout the tournament even after their own country is eliminated, making it an ideal World Cup host city.

Qatar coach Julian Latag acknowledged Canada's superiority while noting his side did not start poorly and had clear chances early on. The turning points were conceding the quick opener, a red card, and the third goal — playing with two men down in that environment made things extremely difficult.

Latag expressed sympathy for the injured Con and insisted the foul was an accident, having reviewed the incident several times. He declined to comment on the confrontation between players at the final whistle, saying each individual must be responsible for his own actions.

Despite the defeat, Latag urged a positive perspective: Qatar are at the World Cup for the first time in their history, having already made history against Switzerland. He views the remaining match as a final and is focused on recovering the squad after losing two key players.

He closed with a message of appreciation to Qatar fans, asking them to be proud of what the team has achieved.