Toronto World Cup watch party ended early over ‘safety concerns’ during Argentina win

Organizers of Toronto’s World Cup watch party outside City Hall ended the event early on Tuesday night, citing “safety concerns” caused by fan behavior during Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria.

Viewing parties, organized by the city and free to enter, are being held throughout the tournament at Nathan Phillips Square by Toronto City Hall.

The event was cut short on Tuesday night, with organizers intervening due to the use of fireworks and smoke flares.

The viewing party ended shortly after Lionel Messi completed his hat-trick in the game, which was played in Kansas City as the defending World Cup champions secured a victory in their first group-stage game.

The screens were turned off and a public announcement informed fans of the decision.

Sharon Bollenbach, Executive Director of Toronto’s FIFA Secretariat, told The Athletic: “On-site staff ended the Nathan Phillips Square viewing party earlier than scheduled on June 16 due to a public safety concern. The City of Toronto will continue to prioritize the safety of our attendees, staff and volunteers during our events.”

Attendees are not subject to security screening as the watch party takes place in an open square, but police and security officials are present in the vicinity.

The Toronto mayor Olivia Chow was present at the start of event to greet visitors but was not there by the stage of the night where the party was curtailed.

The organizers did not respond when asked whether fans went through any security screening in order to enter the watch party.

Toronto is one of 16 host cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Toronto will host five World Cup games in total, the next being Germany’s match against Ivory Coast on Saturday.