I think there is a massive difference between people that are involved recreationally with soccer and those that actually attend pro soccer matches. They are two different demographics. There really is not a hardcore FIFA following in BC so its not a big deal that we're missing out on 1-3 World Cup games in BC. The BC Govt probably saved $100 million by not hosting and the hardcore fans should have no trouble getting tickets and driving down to Seattle and Portland.
Love to know where you are getting your stats from. Here are a few for you to consider (so that you can understand you are simply wrong).
Average Attendance
2017
Vancouver Whitecaps FC | 21,416 |
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2017/18
Vancouver Canucks 18079
2015 FIFA WOMEN'S World Cup
52 Matches in Canada 26, 029
Canada Match in BC 54,027
So, to be clear, Canucks not selling out, Whitecaps averaging more people to games than Canucks, FIFA WOMENS's games outdrawing Canucks, and Canada Women outdrawing Canucks by 3 X. Thats right, 3X. And this is the women...
There would be massive interest in games in BC.
I agree though, there is a difference of people who are involved recreationally in soccer vs those that attend games (at least in terms of converting youth players into stadium goers). The biggest difference, however, is there are less people involved in the largest participation sport in BC than there is who watch games and have interest in FIFA World Cup! And there is no doubt about that! The single biggest issue for the Whitecaps and every other pro franchise that ever tried it in this market is getting kids and recreational soccer players to support Canadian "pro level" football. This challenge does not exist for one of competitions like the World Cup. Those watchers and world football interested have intense interest in World Cups.