The Canadian Premier League will begin play next spring with seven teams, all of which have lined up their facility plans. Though set for this year, the slate of stadiums will evolve beyond 2019. That is not only because of the Canadian Premier League’s potential growth, but because some existing clubs will move into more permanent stadiums.
The mix of Canadian Premier League stadiums for the inaugural 2019 season include large multipurpose venues, smaller soccer-specific stadiums, temporary homes, and renovated facilities. Below is the slate of teams and their stadiums for 2019, with the list in alphabetical order by club name. In some cases, the stadiums for 2019 are meant as temporary solutions, so a few teams will have future stadium plans included in their profiles.
Cavalry FC
The Calgary-club based club will play its home games at Spruce Meadows, an equestrian facility that originally opened in 1975. Renovation of existing facilities will result in a modular design soccer-specific stadium, providing the club with a more than 5,000-seat venue.
FC Edmonton
FC Edmonton is a familiar name in professional circles, as the organization last competed at professional ranks as a member of the Division II NASL from 2011-2017. The club’s Canadian Premier League debut will also mark the return of professional soccer to Clarke Stadium, which is expected to see some renovations over coming seasons—including upgraded washrooms and expanded seating.
Forge FC
Forge FC will play at one of the more established facilities in the Canadian Premier League—Tim Hortons Field, the home of the Canadian Football League’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The stadium’s full seating capacity is 24,000, but that number will be lowered to around 10,000 for many games.
HFX Wanderers FC
A pop-up stadium at Halifax’s Wanderers Grounds will be the home of HFX Wanderers FC. The pop-up stadium debuted earlier this year to host events over the summer and fall, providing a test run for the 2019 soccer season. As part of its design, the seating can be removed at the end of every season and reassembled before the following campaign begins.
Pacific FC
Representing Vancouver Island, Pacific FC will play its home matches at a renovated and expanded Westhills Stadium in Langford (rendering above). Set to be completed in time for the 2019 season, the additions to the stadium—including an extended grandstand, supporters and family sections, and more—will result in a capacity of 6,000. Bear Mountain serves as the stadium’s backdrop, providing a unique setting.
Valour FC
Valour FC will compete at Winnipeg’s Investors Group Field, a venue with plenty of experience at hosting high-profile events. Along with CFL action for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the facility has been used for 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup matches, an NHL outdoor Heritage Classic contest in 2016, and numerous concerts. It originally opened in 2013.
York 9 FC
The club will play its inaugural season at York University’s Alumni Field, but that facility is not intended to be its permanent home. York 9 FC is expected to move into York Lions Stadium for the latter part of its 2019 schedule, when renovations are completed. That could be a stepping stone, however, as the club is looking to build its own 12,000-15,000 seat soccer-specific stadium down the road.
Rendering courtesy Pacific FC.