Summary#
Montréal city council unanimously adopted a position supporting an additional $43,805.21, taxes included, for Sports Montréal inc. to add activities to its contract for the 2026 Jeux de Montréal. The change is meant to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Montréal Olympics and expand the event. The agglomeration council makes the final decision at a later meeting.
- The addendum would raise the 2024–2026 contract from $969,000 to $1,012,805.21, taxes included.
- Sports Montréal would coordinate 26 sports instead of 15, update promotional materials and medals, and produce videos about Olympic highlights.
- The original contract was awarded directly to Sports Montréal; the materials do not describe a new tender for this add-on.
- The additional amount would be paid in two instalments, subject to invoices and approval of the work.
What it means for you#
- Children taking part: If the addendum proceeds, the 2026 Games would include the added activities. City staff say the expansion is intended to benefit young athletes, particularly those aged 6 to 13.
- Sports Montréal inc.: It would take on the added responsibilities. Under the contract, it must return to the City, partner organizations and the next Games promoter any goods acquired for its work.
- Residents and taxpayers: This decision does not directly change taxes, fees, or eligibility for city services.
Money#
The proposed additional spending is $43,805.21, taxes included; the City’s net cost after tax rebates is $40,000.
- The total contract would be $1,012,805.21, taxes included, or $924,826.15 net of tax rebates.
- The Parks, Mount Royal and Sports Department would cover 100% of the added expense from its existing budget.
- The added amount is for 2026. The contract ends June 30, 2026.
What is unclear#
- The materials do not break down the added cost among the sports, promotional materials, medals and videos.
- They do not specify the number or content of the videos, or how the added sports would be selected.
- The resolution states the city council’s position; it does not itself provide details of how the addendum will be implemented.
Case for#
- The added work would connect the 2026 Games to Montréal’s Olympic history while expanding the event for young participants.
- Adding these activities to the existing contract could keep responsibility for organizing the Games with Sports Montréal, which already manages them.
- City staff say the changes would promote sports participation and add cultural, educational or promotional elements.
Case against#
- The proposal adds public spending, but the materials do not show how much each new activity would cost or how its results would be assessed.
- The original contract was awarded directly, and the materials do not explain why that approach was used for the additional work.