BMO Field

BMO Field stands as a groundbreaking achievement in Canadian soccer history, serving as the country's first purpose-built Major League Soccer stadium and the catalyst that transformed professional soccer culture in Canada since opening in 2007. Located at Exhibition Place on Toronto's Lake Ontario waterfront, this venue represents the fifth stadium constructed on historic grounds that have hosted sporting events for over a century, replacing the demolished Exhibition Stadium to create a modern soccer-specific facility designed by Brisbin Brook Beynon Architects. The stadium's development coincided with Toronto FC's establishment as Major League Soccer's thirteenth franchise and first Canadian team, announced on May 11, 2006. Construction began with a unique partnership between three levels of government and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, resulting in a $62.9 million investment that would fundamentally change the landscape of professional soccer in Canada. The project was completed in time for the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup, with BMO Field hosting twelve matches including the final, drawing over 260,000 fans and establishing its credentials as an international-caliber venue. Brisbin Brook Beynon's architectural design prioritized creating an authentic soccer atmosphere through intimate fan proximity and strategic acoustic considerations. The stadium's most distinctive feature is its deliberately open northeast section, which frames Toronto's downtown skyline and creates a unique visual connection between the venue and the city. This design choice reflects the architects' understanding of soccer culture, emphasizing community integration over complete enclosure while maintaining excellent sightlines and atmosphere throughout the facility. The venue's evolution demonstrates thoughtful expansion capabilities, with major renovations from 2014-2016 adding an 8,400-seat upper bowl on the east grandstand and installing a comprehensive roof structure. The suspended roof system, measuring 115 by 150 meters and supported by four steel super-columns anchored seven meters deep into bedrock, provides weather protection while maintaining the stadium's open character. Recent technological upgrades include state-of-the-art LED screens with over five million pixels each and an innovative hybrid playing surface installed in 2019. BMO Field's cultural significance extends beyond its architectural achievements to encompass the passionate supporter culture that developed from its opening day. The South End has become the domain of legendary supporter groups including the Red Patch Boys, who occupy Section 112 known as "The Bunker," along with U-Sector, Kings of the North, and Tribal Rhythm Nation. These groups created a European-style ultra atmosphere characterized by continuous singing, chanting, and visual displays that established new standards for soccer support in North America. The stadium's historical moments include Danny Dichio's first goal in Toronto FC history on May 12, 2007, scored at 23:13 against the Chicago Fire. This moment sparked the tradition of supporters singing Dichio's name in the 24th minute of every home match, creating a lasting ritual that has outlasted nearly every player to wear the Toronto FC jersey and demonstrating the venue's role in establishing enduring soccer traditions. Modern BMO Field accommodates 28,180 spectators for regular events while maintaining the intimate atmosphere that distinguishes soccer-specific venues from multi-purpose facilities. The venue's location at Exhibition Place provides convenient access via multiple transportation options while offering integration with Toronto's broader entertainment and cultural district. For visitors, BMO Field represents an authentic soccer experience that combines architectural innovation with passionate supporter culture, creating an environment where Canadian soccer tradition continues to evolve. The stadium serves as proof that purpose-built soccer venues can successfully establish deep community connections while meeting international standards for major competitions.