Sign In
Subscribe Now
A small group in Port Alberni wants to get in on the FIFA World Cup soccer celebrations in 2026, and they’re looking for input from the public.
Abu Jahangir, owner of Agrohope Farms and Products on upper Third Avenue, and Terry Deakin, CEO of INEO Employment Services, are leading the committee that wants to celebrate World Cup soccer when it comes to Vancouver in June 2026.
“If we can start right now, we’ll be leading the Island,” said Jahangir.
Jahangir grew up in Bangladesh and remembers the frenzy that takes over the country whenever the World Cup approaches—even when the home country isn’t considered a soccer powerhouse. He hopes to re-create that in the Alberni Valley.
“During the World Cup almost every household has a (team) flag flying. When the FIFA campaign starts it’s a long process: more than a year out everyone is talking about it,” he said.
Jahangir splits his time between his businesses in Port Alberni and Richmond, B.C., a Vancouver suburb that is already planning its own celebrations. Jahangir said Port Alberni doesn’t need to start from scratch if it wants to capitalize on World Cup dollars.
Ultimately he would like to bring a “friendly,” or pre-tournament match to the Alberni Valley between two countries that will be competing in the World Cup. However, Jahangir and Deakin both say cultural showcases, watch parties or other activities could happen as well. They’re open to ideas.
The public has until Jan. 14, 2025 to submit their thoughts and suggestions via email to Jahangir at ahmjahangir@agrohope.ca or Deakin at terry@ineoemployment.com.
The organizing committee will meet to discuss public input to help map an inclusive plan to showcase the Alberni Valley during FIFA 2026.
Breaking News You Need To Know
Sign up for free account today and start receiving our exclusive newsletters.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
A link has been emailed to you – check your inbox.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
A link has been emailed to you – check your inbox.
Susie Quinn
Dialogue and debate are integral to a free society and we welcome and encourage you to share your views on the issues of the day. We ask that you be respectful of others and their points of view, refrain from personal attacks and stay on topic. To learn about our commenting policies and how our community-based moderation works, please read our Community Guidelines.
