World Cup debut draws minimal security incidents in Vancouver
Just one arrest and one ejection as 52,497 fans filled BC Place for Australia's 2-0 victory over Türkiye.
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Vancouver's first FIFA Men's World Cup match drew a massive crowd with minimal disruption Saturday, June 13. One person was arrested at the FIFA Fan Festival at Hastings Park for breaching court-imposed conditions unrelated to the event, and one fan was ejected from BC Place for intoxication and refusing to leave.
"Considering the size of the event, two arrests is minimal and would be a small number even for a regular Saturday night," said Sgt. Adam Donaldson of Vancouver Police.
A reported 52,497 fans filled the stadium to watch Australia defeat Türkiye 2-0. Thousands had flooded the False Creek area beforehand, marching under the SkyTrain track, past Science World, along Quebec Street, and into The Last Mile fan zone. Police had assigned officers to facilitate the marches after advance coordination with organizers.
Up to 1,200 police officers were deployed throughout Saturday, including officers from Calgary Police, Edmonton Police, and Transit Police. "Police presence is the best way to prevent any public disorder," Donaldson said, "and I think that is what happened last night."
An expected 350,000 soccer fans are anticipated to attend the seven World Cup matches hosted in Vancouver throughout June and July.