Ottawa to spend up to $145M on World Cup security in Toronto and Vancouver

The federal government is putting up to $145 million toward security for the FIFA World Cup, which Canada is co-hosting with the United States and Mexico this summer. Thirteen matches are scheduled across Toronto and Vancouver in June and July.

In a release, the government said the money responds to "specific operational needs identified by the host provinces and cities" and is meant to ease the financial pressure on local governments while making sure public safety agencies have what they need.

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree told a Toronto news conference that an event at this scale demands a "massive, coordinated security effort." His pitch to fans: "Whether you're at a match or enjoying the FIFA fan festival … fans will be able to rest assured that you are protected."

Ottawa had already committed up to $320 million for hosting the tournament. This latest round brings the federal tab higher, though the government hasn't released a full breakdown of how the $145 million will be divided between Toronto and Vancouver.