North Texas prepares for nine World Cup matches in 2026

North Texas, USA, is on the precipice of hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026, with only one year left before the tournament begins on June 14, 2026. Monica Paul, the executive director of the Dallas Sports Commission and president of the North Texas FIFA World Cup 2026 Host Committee, recently held a news conference to provide insights into the preparations taking place in the region. The spotlight will be on AT&T Stadium in Arlington, where a total of nine matches are scheduled, including group stage, Round of 32, Round of 16, and a semifinal match. These matches are poised to attract significant attention, not just for the sport itself but also for the economic boost expected as a result of international tourism and related activities. The economic impact is projected to be substantial, with estimates ranging between $1.5 billion to $2.1 billion, driven primarily by the influx of visitors, many of whom will travel from outside the United States. To support the media presence, the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas has been designated as the International Broadcast Center, which is expected to draw between 3,000 and 5,000 media professionals. The preparations for this global event also include establishing six base camp locations across North Texas to serve teams, staff, and media. As part of the festivities leading up to the matches, local organizers are also planning a 39-day fan festival, which aims to celebrate and showcase the cultural vibrancy of North Texas while attracting fans from around the world. The excitement surrounding the World Cup is palpable, with Monica Paul emphasizing the enthusiasm for both the sport and the culture surrounding it. Security considerations are also a top priority, with ongoing coordination between FIFA and various agencies to ensure a safe environment for attendees. Lastly, there has been an ongoing discussion regarding the naming of AT&T Stadium, which FIFA has designated as "Dallas Stadium" for the tournament. Local organizers have requested a modification to include Arlington in the title, leading to a call for either "Arlington Dallas Stadium" or "Dallas Arlington Stadium." This proposal emphasizes a desire to represent the host city of Arlington accurately while maintaining the global recognition of Dallas. The decision regarding the stadium's name remains pending, but it has spurred dialogue among local leaders and soccer fans alike.