Toronto FIFA Fan Festival attendees denied refunds after weather evacuation

Some attendees at Toronto’s FIFA Fan Festival are upset after Thursday’s opening event was evacuated because of lightning concerns and organizers said ticket holders would not receive refunds. The evacuation happened at Fort York and the Bentway during openingmatch festivities, where fans had gathered to watch Mexico play South Africa as part of FIFA World Cup celebrations. One attendee who travelled from Mississauga said the weather did not seem severe when people were asked to leave. The City of Toronto later confirmed that the event was sold as rain or shine, and said no refunds would be issued for the June 11 event. Officials said safety remained the top priority and noted that severe weather could affect operations at the festival.