Canada Soccer Statement on York University Decision

Ottawa, Ontario – The CSA issued the following statement following the decision by York University to withdraw from the stadium project.

“Despite the decision by York University to withdraw from the stadium project, the Canadian Soccer Association wishes to emphasize that this in no way jeopardizes the ability for Canada to host the FIFA World Youth Championship 2007. We will immediately review other possible hosting venues to join those already in place in Ottawa, Montreal, Edmonton, Victoria and Vancouver.”

FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President Jack Warner reiterated and emphasized FIFA’s continued and committed support to Canada hosting the FIFA World Youth Championship 2007 with or without a stadium at York University. He also singled out the positive announcement of the construction of a soccer specific stadium in Montreal (Saputo Stadium) which will hold 13,500 spectators, expandable to 17,000.”

The championship already involves five exceptional tournament host cities who are well on their way to hosting the tournament. The CSA is already in discussion with at least three different potential venues to replace York University and intends to have this issue fully resolved by early June.”