The whole lack of support up front from the UCP on funding for FIFA games has me really angry. And I am a centre right kind of guy. But I am so pissed with UCP and lack of support for Edmonton I am going to send $$$$$ to the NDP. Getting rid of Jason Kenney won't change that unless a new leader steps up and shows full support for the Capital City pronto.
The federal government was on board right from the beginning and obviously the city was, too, in putting its name forward and going through this lengthy process since 2017. United Bid was selected in 2018 with Edmonton one of the three cities in the bid.
As you will see from this article, the NDP government under Notley was also silent at this time and had not committed, which was a surprise to Soccer Canada and Coun. Walters.
Edmonton takes a kick at hosting 2026 FIFA World Cup.
edmontonjournal.com
Walters noted the province has so far not backed the bid, but lobbying will continue.
“The door is not closed, but there is some hesitancy,” said Walters. “Ultimately, if we’re going to be left on the hook for full costs as we get closer to knowing, that’s not something we’d be comfortable with. But we feel confident we’re going to be able to pull it out. ”
Reed (Soccer Canada) also expressed his confidence in the bid moving forward, but admitted he was surprised when the province expressed reservations to support the bid.
“It wasn’t something that overly concerned us because we’re confident with the City of Edmonton and what they’ve done to date,” said Reed. “We’re very confident in their ability to engage with the province of Alberta as they have done in the past to bring events to the city and the province.”
Ultimately, Reed said hosting the games would be a huge win for Edmonton, and Canada.
I have written and called NDP MLAs Notley, Shepherd and Irwin and have not heard a peep from any of them. I did talk to Shepherd's office worker and she said they haven't received any calls.
I wonder if this was Calgary, where NDP needs to win seats, if they would be as silent.
