With the FIFA World Cup 2026™ beginning, many restaurants are offering promos to celebrate with LTOs and events to get guests in the spirit and excited to visit. The event, to be held in 16 North American cities offers plenty of opportunity for QSRs to capitalize on the soccer fever.
With an early start, Tim Hortons launched a new lineup of World Cup-themed Timbits at the end of April. The collection celebrates four countries with unique flavours including Canada (Canadian Fireworks), France (Chocolate Crème Brûlée Filled), Brazil (Lime Cheesecake Filled), and Italy (cappuccino). The Timbits are available individually or as part of a 30-pack that comes in a collectible soccer-themed Timbits Bucket. In addition, to further celebrate the history and impact of the Timbits Soccer program, a TV campaign featuring Canadian soccer star Jonathan David will begin airing in the weeks ahead.
Baskin Robbins is getting in on the fun, adding Fútbal Fireworks as the June flavour of the month, adding the ice cream and a milkshake to the menu. The flavour features a combination of Sweet Cream Soda ice cream, Cherry flavored sherbet, green apple and blue raspberry popping candy, and blue raspberry swirls.
Pizza Hut is also celebrating soccer – not with LTOs, but with a global campaign that celebrates capturing memories through football, capturing the memories, and the traditions and emotions that connect generations through the game. “The goal was to create something that felt instantly recognizable emotionally, no matter where you grew up or which tournament memories you carry with you,” said Roy Torres, Global Creative Director at Pizza Hut and co-director of the film.
McDonald’s is partnering up to offer a limited-time FIFA World Cup 26™ Meal®, featuring one of seven star-studded collectible cups featuring Alphonso Davies, David Beckham, Ronaldinho Gaúcho, Thierry Henry, Heung-Min Son and Lamine Yamal. They have also introduced the FIFA World Cup 26™ Happy Meal®, including one of 23 of Squishmallows™ in tournament-inspired jerseys. And for dessert, the chain has introduced the Golden McFlurry, made with vanilla soft serve, caramel sauce, and toasted coconut topping.
Sporting events like the World Cup bring families and groups together and it is the perfect time to get into the spirit and create an LTO that draws in a crowd, raises revenues, and helps you stand out from the competition.
Image provided by McDonald’s.
