Art & Culture

For World Cup Fans, Shabab Intl’s Inaugural Toronto Pop-Up Is a Must Visit

BYMille Team

June 18, 2026

Last summer, Shabab Intl staged its first Canadian pop-up in Calgary, bringing its signature blend of streetwear, culture, and community to the city where Iraqi founders Cheb Moha and Zaineb Hasoon spent the better part of their teenage and young adult years. Now, the Dubai-based label is taking it a step further and hosting another pop-up in Toronto, coinciding with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Not only is Canada one of the tournament’s host nations, but Iraq is also competing in the World Cup and playing several matches on Canadian soil, turning the pop-up into something of a celebration of both football and diaspora identity. “It’s our first time popping up in Toronto, and it’s special because we’re celebrating the World Cup, and we’re celebrating Iraq being in the World Cup, and we’re celebrating the fact that Iraq is playing in Canada,” Cheb told MILLE.

Taking place on June 20 and 21 at the KOTN Ossington Flagship, the pop-up will feature exclusive merchandise created specifically for the occasion, such as a limited-edition Toronto T-shirt and special Iraq football jerseys, including one rendered in a vibrant turquoise blue, and another in gradient green featuring date palm motifs, a nod to one of Iraq’s most enduring national symbols.

As with previous Shabab Intl activations, the event promises to be about far more than shopping. Over the years, the brand’s pop-ups have developed a reputation for feeling more like neighborhood block parties than traditional retail experiences, with crowds spilling onto the sidewalk, parents pushing strollers, kids running around, friends catching up over food, and curious passersby stopping to see what all the commotion is about. The Toronto edition looks set to continue that tradition, with a packed program of music, community, and food. Iraqi-Canadian multimedia artist and frequent collaborator NARCY will join Cheb Moha behind the decks throughout the weekend, alongside surprise special guests.

With Iraq set to face France just a day after the pop-up wraps, the timing could hardly be better. For supporters making the pilgrimage to Canada for the World Cup, consider this a mandatory stop.

For World Cup Fans, Shabab Intl’s Inaugural Toronto Pop-Up Is a Must Visit

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For World Cup Fans, Shabab Intl’s Inaugural Toronto Pop-Up Is a Must Visit

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