Portugal-Croatia World Cup viewing party axed outside Toronto City Hall

Toronto cancelled its Portugal-Croatia World Cup viewing parties scheduled for Thursday, citing an “extreme heat forecast” and pressure on safety resources. The city announced the sudden change late Wednesday at Nathan Phillips Square, even as Environment Canada projected a high of 35°C in Toronto during the day. Temperatures were expected to drop to about 31°C by the 7 p.m. kickoff of the match at Toronto Stadium. The article says viewing parties may still proceed at Fan Fest and other city locations. City staff were also asked to clarify the “demand on resources” reference after prior capacity issues at Fort York’s Fan Fest. The decision comes amid broader scrutiny of security and policing costs for other public events.