Canada: Workers Action Centre alleges FIFA volunteers are working many jobs that resemble those that should be paid
"‘They’re doing jobs that should be paid’: Toronto workers’ advocates criticize FIFA volunteer roles", 30 July 2026
...The Workers’ Action Centre is criticizing FIFA’s volunteer program for the 2026 World Cup, arguing some volunteer roles resemble paid work rather than traditional volunteer positions.
FIFA rejects that characterization, saying the program complies with labour laws, supplements, rather than replaces, paid staff, and attracted more than 1.1 million applications worldwide. ”FIFA categorically rejects any suggestion that its Volunteer Programme replaces paid employment, circumvents labour laws or is inconsistent with applicable employment protections,” a FIFA spokesperson said...
The Workers’ Action Centre argues volunteer opportunities in areas such as hospitality, transportation, broadcast services and anti-doping resemble paid work...
Workers Action Centre’s Executive Director Deena Laad says that a true volunteer position would be leading someone to their seat or checking tickets...
The Workers’ Action Centre also raised concerns about volunteer uniforms and equipment.
FIFA says every volunteer receives a full uniform, including Adidas shoes, and disputed claims that volunteers are expected to provide their own footwear...