The Nottawasaga Resort in New Tecumseth has been designated as Ontario’s official team training base for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Announced by FIFA in May, this location will host the Panama national team during the tournament, which features 48 participating teams from around the world.
Location Overview
Nottawasaga Resort is located approximately one hour north of Toronto, covering 230 hectares. The town of New Tecumseth, with a population of about 44,000, offers a rural setting that contrasts with the bustling metropolitan area of Toronto.
Mayor Richard Norcross expressed pride in hosting such a significant event, stating, “This is probably the largest event that’s ever happened here in terms of sports and recreation.” The resort’s tranquil environment will serve to enhance the training experience for the athletes.
Facilities and Amenities
The Nottawasaga Resort features two international-sized soccer pitches, ample accommodation for a 26-man squad, coaches, and support staff. Noteworthy amenities include:
- Two swimming pools
- 36 holes of golf
The convenience of walking to training sessions is a major advantage. Dino Biffis, the resort’s vice-president, noted, “The logistics of transporting players by bus is actually quite complex due to security and city traffic.”
History of the Resort
Founded by Lou Biffis in 1959, the resort has a rich history of hosting world-class athletes. It was famously used by the German national team as a training facility prior to the 1994 World Cup in the United States. The resort has continually evolved, adding facilities to meet international standards.
Panama’s Arrival and Training
The Panama national team arrived at the resort on June 7, 2026. Players have expressed satisfaction with their temporary home. Winger Édgar Yoel Bárcenas highlighted the location’s peacefulness, which promotes concentration during training.
On June 11, the team held an open practice session attended by around 300 fans. This event allowed locals to witness the team’s preparations firsthand.
Community Engagement
Local residents, including families who traveled from Toronto, expressed excitement about the event. Fans witnessed athletes up close and even collected autographs. Notable attendees included Panamanian baseball player José Caballero, who praised the resort facilities.
Looking Ahead
The Panama team is gearing up for their opening match against Ghana at the Toronto Stadium. This World Cup training base not only emphasizes New Tecumseth’s role in international sports but also honors the legacy of the Biffis family. “Family is at the heart of everything that happens here,” said Dino Biffis, as the resort continues to showcase its commitment to hospitality.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, the Nottawasaga Resort stands ready to make its mark as a premier training base, fostering a perfect environment for athletes to thrive.
