Ben, a border collie, is patrolling the FIFA World Cup training pitch in Toronto during June 2026 to keep geese off the field as teams prepare for the tournament.
The presence of geese had been causing disturbances on the grass, prompting officials to take action. Ben was assigned to the task, walking the perimeter and chasing the birds away.
The measure is part of broader preparations as Toronto hosts training sessions for the upcoming World Cup. Maintaining a clean playing surface is essential for visiting squads, and the dog provides a low‑tech, animal‑based solution.
Officials noted that the geese are a regular feature of the area and that previous attempts to deter them had limited success. By deploying Ben, they hope to reduce interruptions without resorting to more invasive methods.
The arrangement has been observed by staff and players alike, who report that the field remains clearer when Ben is on duty. The dog’s work continues throughout the training period, with regular patrols scheduled each day.
As the tournament approaches, the city’s efforts to ensure optimal conditions for the world’s top football teams include this simple yet effective wildlife management tactic.
The training pitch in Toronto is being used for World Cup preparation sessions, and keeping the grass clear of geese is part of the effort to maintain the playing surface for the visiting teams.
Deploying Ben provides a simple animal‑based method to deter the birds, allowing maintenance staff to focus on other aspects of field upkeep during the busy training period.