DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – The City of Dallas was named one of 16 host cities for FIFA World Cup 2026™, by FIFA on a live broadcast on Thursday from New York City.
A crowd gathered at the AT&T Discovery District in downtown Dallas to watch the announcement.
“This is a big day for the city of Dallas. Being named as a host city for FIFA World Cup 2026™ provides a once-in-a generation opportunity to create a legacy for North Texas through the most popular sport in the world,” said Dallas Sports Commission Executive Director Monica Paul. “From infrastructure and arts to top-level training facilities and a world-class venue in AT&T Stadium, Dallas offers everything that the committee could have wanted in a host city. It’s incredibly gratifying to be chosen, and we can’t wait to begin preparing for FIFA World Cup 2026™.”
Cities also named as FIFA World Cup 2026 host cities include Atlanta, Boston, Guadalajara, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Miami, Monterrey, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto and Vancouver.
“There is no greater sporting event in the world than the FIFA World Cup,” said Dan Hunt, Dallas 2026 Host City Bid Chairman and President, FC Dallas. “We are thrilled that FIFA has selected Dallas as a host city for the North American bid and FC Dallas is proud to play an important part in this process.
AT&T Stadium in Arlington will be one of the primary venues in FIFA World Cup 2026™.
“Our region is known for delivering a world-class sports experience, and FIFA World Cup 2026™ will fit perfectly within that framework,” said Dallas Cowboys Owner, President and General Manager Jerry Jones. “We’re thrilled that the committee has selected Dallas as a host city and can’t wait to once again showcase our region on a global stage. AT&T Stadium is one of the world’s premier sports venues, an elite facility worthy of hosting FIFA World Cup 2026™. I couldn’t be prouder to welcome one of the world’s most popular sport inside the home of the Dallas Cowboys, and I am confident our fan base will respond with an energy befitting ‘The Beautiful Game.’”
Thursday’s announcement follows an extensive bidding process.
“We congratulate the 16 FIFA World Cup Host Cities on their outstanding commitment and passion,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “Today is a historic day – for everyone in those cities and states, for FIFA, for Canada, the USA and Mexico who will put on the greatest show on Earth. We look forward to working together with them to deliver what will be an unprecedented FIFA World Cup and a game-changer as we strive to make football truly global.”
The 16 host cities in three countries will stage matches between 48 teams.
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