Information for Businesses
Playbook for Richmond Businesses
Are you a Richmond business? Download the playbook to get ready for FIFA World Cup 2026™. Create soccer-inspired experiences, welcome visitors, and navigate branding and licensing with confidence.
Branding Rules for Businesses
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is an opportunity to welcome fans and celebrate. Only official partners may use FIFA trademarks or imply affiliation. Businesses are encouraged to create soccer-themed experiences without using protected marks or suggesting endorsement.
Brand Protection and Enforcement
FIFA monitors brand use across digital and physical spaces. Enforcement or legal action may occur in cases of serious or repeated violations.
General Principles
Celebrate creatively using soccer themes, flags, and national colours.
Only official FIFA Partners, Sponsors, Licensees, and Host City Supporters may use FIFA intellectual property for commercial purposes.
Unauthorized commercial associations (“ambush marketing”) are prohibited.
What Businesses Can Do
Decorate with soccer balls, nets, jerseys, flags, and general soccer imagery.
Host themed events or specials inspired by participating countries (e.g., cultural food, music nights).
Show matches in bars, restaurants, or community venues as part of regular operations.
Apply for permits through the City of Richmond’s REACT application for special events or activations.
Sell merchandise with general soccer designs or country flags, without using FIFA World Cup 2026™ or FIFA intellectual property.
What Businesses Cannot Do
Use FIFA logos, wordmarks, slogans, mascots, or designs (e.g., “FIFA World Cup 26™”, the trophy image, “We Are 26”, “We Are Vancouver”, or “Force of Nature”).
Suggest or imply an official partnership or endorsement unless licensed.
Sell, gift, or promote merchandise featuring FIFA trademarks or event branding without approval from FIFA.
Use player likenesses, team jerseys, or national team imagery suggesting affiliation.
Use FIFA trademarks in advertising match screenings (e.g., “Official FIFA World Cup 26™ Viewing Party”) without authorization.
How Businesses Can Get Involved
Apply for a Seasonal Patio
Operate from April 1 – October 31.
Apply through the City of Richmond.
Liquor Sales and Service
Changes to liquor licenses (temporary patios, extended hours, event service) must be approved by the Province.
Apply through the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch as early as possible.
Plan and Host Outdoor Events
To host a special event or activation, applications can be submitted to the City of Richmond’s Event Approvals Application system. Applications are reviewed by the Richmond Event Approval Coordination Team (REACT), which coordinates approvals to help ensure your event is safe, compliant, and successful.
Liquor service at events may require a Liquor Special Event Permit through the Province.
Understand Public Viewing Licensing Requirements
Showing matches during regular business operations (existing screens, free attendance, no ticket sales) does not require an additional license.
Large-scale public viewings (e.g., 1,000+ attendees, sponsors, admission fees, or activations) require a Public Viewing Licence through FIFA’s official platform.
Additional Resources
Contact Info
For more information, connect with the Economic Development Office at: economicdev@richmond.ca.