Why should we be collectively pushing for a more equitable and socially just approach to hosting this World Cup and any future mega-events in our city?
Advocates for hosting a mega-event, like the FIFA Men’s World Cup, often frame such events as a once in a lifetime opportunity for a city to enhance its urban brand, infrastructure and global standing, effectively becoming “world class” by hosting a world-class event.
Join us on February 24 for the third annual Peter Donnelly Lecture in Sport Policy Studies, where keynote speaker, David Roberts, will explore the connection between hosting a mega-event and becoming a “world-class” city with a particular focus on Toronto as host city.
Event Details
- Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at Innis Town Hall (2 Sussex Avenue)
- Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
- Lecture starts at 7 p.m.
- Post-lecture social starts at 8 p.m. with light snacks and refreshments
- No cost to attend but registration is required
The event is open to all, and will also be livestreamed (a link will be provided a few days before the event). We welcome students, staff, and faculty from across the University of Toronto community, as well as alumni of the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education and members of the public.
David Roberts is an award-winning associate professor of Urban Studies in the Department of Geography and Planning at the University of Toronto. He joined the Urban Studies Program in 2013 after completing his PhD and MA in geography from the U of T. His research and teaching focus on the geographies of race and racialization, urban infrastructure planning, and the politics of public participation in urban knowledge production and policymaking. He has a particular interest in how members of communities historically marginalized from formal planning processes engage in city-building work by shaping and reshaping urban spaces, politics and experiences.