The FIFA World Cup 2026 is just around the corner, and it’s already having an impact on the local community.
Airbnb announced earlier today that it was providing $150,000 to support a new clubhouse for the Prince Edward County Soccer Association (PECSA) through its FIFA World Cup 2026 Impact Program. Prince Edward County is one of four Ontario communities to receive funding for soccer infrastructure and programming. The three other recipient communities include Niagara-on-the-Lake, Bracebridge, and Gravenhurst.
“This investment is a transformational moment for PECSA and the thousands of players, families, and volunteers we serve each year,” says David Walcott, President of PECSA. “The new clubhouse will provide a permanent home for our soccer community while giving us the secure space needed to protect the significant equipment and resources PECSA has invested in to deliver a high-quality soccer experience. By strengthening our operations and safeguarding these assets, this facility will help ensure that investments in youth soccer continue to deliver lasting benefits for local players and families. We are deeply grateful for this support and excited to bring this vision to life.”
PECSA is a registered not-for-profit organization that has served the County since 1999 and currently supports nearly 1,000 participants ranging from U4 players to adult leagues. With 73 teams, games operating four nights per week, and dozens of local volunteers and community sponsors, PECSA is a cornerstone of organized sport in the region.
The proposed PECSA clubhouse, which Council declared a Project of Community Interest in April 2025, is designed with inspiration from the County’s agricultural heritage. The building will provide secure storage for equipment, jerseys, and field maintenance tools; a centralized meeting and operations space; updated irrigation controls; and a modest concession area. Council approved the project as part of the 2026 budget with PECSA committing to raise $200,000 for the project with the municipality contributing $5,000 for the water filling station.
The project also includes planning for adjacent portable washroom facilities, water bottle refill access, and future accessibility improvements. Together, these elements will create a safe, functional hub that supports both daily operations and long-term facility sustainability.
“During World Cup season, Airbnb’s outstanding contribution, combined with the incredible fundraising happening right here in the County, means the Prince Edward County Soccer Association will finally have the clubhouse they deserve. This new home base will support our athletes for years to come and help our community spirit continue to grow and flourish,” Mayor Steve Ferguson says.
Construction is scheduled to begin this Fall, after the season ends. PECSA aims to complete the project before the start of next season. Regular soccer programming will not be interrupted by the project.
“Ontario’s tourism economy is anchored by neighbourhoods big and small — from major urban centres to the small and mid-sized communities that welcome visitors throughout the year,” says Hannah Parish, Country Manager, Canada, Airbnb. “Our hope is that this investment can help bring the magic of the FIFA World Cup to all corners of Ontario, to help build the next generation of soccer fans long after the final whistle this July.”
Visit the County, the official destination marketing and management organization for Prince Edward County, is encouraging soccer fans who are attending FIFA World Cup 2026 in Toronto to explore the local community. Information about attractions and planning a trip can be found on Visit the County’s website.