The Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education hosted the third annual Peter Donnelly Lecture in Sport Policy Studies on February 24, 2026.
David Roberts (Department of Geography & Planning, U of T) delivered the keynote address, titled 'Beyond the Pitch: The Social Costs of Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup'. In his presentation, he explored the connection between hosting a mega-event and becoming a “world-class” city, with a particular focus on Toronto as host city.
About the Dr. Peter Donnelly Lecture in Sport Policy Studies
This lectureship honours the contribution and legacy of Peter Donnelly, Professor Emeritus at the University of Toronto. He is the founding Director of the Centre for Sport Policy Studies (1999–2021), and was a Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education. The lecture aims to celebrate his legacy of teaching, contribution to the sociology of sport and commitment to social justice.