It will not be long before the Dallas-Fort Worth area plays host to some of the 2026 World Cup’s games, with the most-watched international sporting tournament in the world putting some shine on the metroplex.
AT&T Stadium in Arlington is set to host nine matches, including four knockout-round games, of which one is a semi-final, according to FIFA.
Attendees will be able to watch “five group-stage games, two Round of 32 fixtures, one Round of 16 tie, and the first semi-final on Tuesday, 14 July 2026.”
Given all the attention and promotion the sport is likely to see in the Dallas area, local stakeholders are working to build off the momentum and grow the sport, which has become increasingly popular in the United States.
Here is some of what WFAA reported on its recent interview with FC Dallas owner Dan Hunt:
Exciting times are on the horizon for DFW soccer.
The World Cup is set to descend on North Texas in less than two years – which may seem like a while but it’ll be here before you blink! Toyota Stadium is reportedly set to undergo a major facelift, according to the Dallas Business Journal.
WFAA had the opportunity to speak with Hunt about both of these topics, and more, in a conversation this week. Hunt hinted at “some news that could potentially be coming” after mentioning an anniversary for the stadium. August of 2025 would mark the 20th year since it opened.
Hunt noted the big project for him and the Dallas Sports Commission is securing the International Broadcast Center.
Dallas City Council cleared the path for potentially getting the IBC, which is still under negotiation with FIFA. In order to score the IBC, FIFA has some requirements, including fixing the building’s roof, which will cost approximately $500,000.
