World Cup Brings Traffic Chaos; Uber Drivers Seek Better Terms
Ride-hailing workers warn that 650,000 expected tourists will strain the city this summer.
Toronto's summer is about to get crowded. With the World Cup arriving in June and July, roughly 650,000 soccer fans are expected to descend on the city, and ride-hailing drivers are bracing for gridlock.
At a recent meeting with Uber executives, drivers represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers union raised urgent concerns about how they'll manage during the tournament. Increased traffic means frustrated passengers. Longer wait times mean lost earnings. Driver safety during high-stress conditions becomes a real issue.
"Increased traffic causes some customers to be antsy and nervous and frustrated," said Barry Sawyer, national president at UFCW.
Drivers are pushing for better working conditions and clearer support from the company during the tournament period. That could mean surge pricing protections, guaranteed minimum earnings, or conflict-de-escalation training. Uber hasn't publicly committed to specific measures, but the conversation signals that the industry expects significant strain.
For residents planning to use ride-hailing during the World Cup window, expect surges and longer waits. The alternative—TTC and taxis—will face equal pressure. Plan ahead, leave early, and maybe dust off that bicycle.