As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Toronto has unveiled an inventive public health initiative to promote safe sex during the international tournament. In a nod to the excitement surrounding soccer, officials from Toronto Public Health are distributing condoms adorned with playful designs and slogans that reflect the sport’s terminology.
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The condoms are part of the city’s CondomTO programme, which aims to encourage responsible sexual practices through vibrant and cheeky messaging. Available at select public health clinics, these themed condoms feature catchphrases like “block those shots” and “what a finish,” intended to resonate with soccer fans as they prepare for the matches.
This initiative marks a continuation of Toronto Public Health’s previous efforts to incorporate themed condom campaigns during significant city events. Historically, the agency has used creativity to promote safe sex. The first themed wrappers were introduced during the 2014 World Pride celebrations, and the concept expanded further with dedicated designs for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games.
According to a recent statement shared on social media, the condoms are being distributed as part of the city’s ongoing efforts to encourage individuals to “score safely.” Toronto is preparing for an influx of visitors, with projections indicating that hundreds of thousands are expected to flock to the city during the tournament, scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19.
Toronto’s BMO Field will temporarily transform into a vibrant sports venue, hosting six World Cup matches, including Canada’s opening game against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12. The selection of Toronto as one of the host cities has further invigorated local enthusiasm for the event, providing a perfect backdrop for the public health campaign.
The agency has stressed the importance of making condoms readily available in conjunction with large events, understanding that heightened public interest in soccer will coincide with heightened social activity. As Toronto gears up for the festival of football, the combination of health messaging and sporting excitement generates a unique opportunity for community engagement.
In line with their innovative approach, Toronto Public Health has previously run contests to design condom wrappers that reflect local culture and values. In 2016, the agency invited residents to submit their creative ideas, leading to memorable entries with phrases such as “ride responsibly” and “cover your lumber, Jack.” This collaborative spirit fosters a sense of community ownership around the health campaign, engaging Torontonians in a lighthearted yet vital conversation about sexual health.
As cities around the world prepare for the World Cup, Toronto’s approach stands out for its clever integration of humour and public health advocacy. With soccer fever set to take over, the timely distribution of these themed condoms is both playful and purposeful, ensuring that as audiences cheer for their teams, they are also encouraged to prioritise safe sexual practices. As Toronto Public Health aptly puts it: “Don’t pass up protection.”