PayPal Poll: 44% of Canadians Would Cut Everyday Spending for Summer Soccer

A new poll commissioned by PayPal reveals that Canadian fans are balancing excitement for the summer's major soccer tournament with cautious spending habits. The survey of 1,043 Canadian adults, conducted from June 3 to 5, 2026, found that nearly half (44%) of respondents would reduce discretionary spending in other areas to attend matches or enjoy tournament-related experiences. This highlights the growing importance Canadians place on memorable shared events and the role of digital payments in planning and participation.

Trade-offs for the Tournament

PayPal's poll identified the biggest trade-offs fans are willing to make. Among self-identified soccer fans, 31% said they would cut back on dining out, nearly double the national average of 19%. Additionally, 27% would scale back on going out with friends, compared to 18% of all Canadians. Non-essential shopping would be reduced by 21% of fans, versus 13% overall.

Young Fans Lead the Shift

While more than half of all Canadian adults (56%) said attending would not require budgetary changes, only one in five (21%) soccer fan Gen Zers agreed, indicating that many young fans are actively reshuffling their budgets to participate.

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Spending Priorities

Despite cutting everyday spending, fans are ready to invest in the fan experience. The poll shows tournament-related spending intent across several categories:

Food and snacks: 64% of respondents are willing to spend on game-day essentials, the highest category.
Watching together: 48% plan to spend at restaurants and sports bars, while 41% expect to spend on watch parties and social gatherings.
Travel: Among fans, 42% are willing to spend on accommodations and 41% on travel packages. Gen Z enthusiasm is particularly strong, with 54% willing to spend on hotels.
Streaming and merchandise: 35% plan to spend on streaming subscriptions, and 30% expect to purchase official jerseys or fan gear.

Overall, one in four Canadian adults is willing to spend on accommodations or match tickets, underscoring the widespread enthusiasm for the tournament.