In an exciting development for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, Dallas has been selected as the site for the International Broadcast Center, cementing its position as a key media hub for the tournament. The bustling Texas city will not only be home to the media operations but will also see nine games played, more than any other host city.
The prestigious Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas will be transformed into a bustling hub for television networks, journalists from various media outlets, and online platforms. With its expansive 1 million square feet of exhibit space, the convention center will serve as the nerve center for broadcasting the World Cup to audiences around the globe. FIFA has secured the facility for its exclusive use from January through late August 2026.
While neighboring Arlington's AT&T Stadium narrowly missed out on hosting the championship match, it will still play a significant role in the tournament by hosting one of the semifinals. The strong presence of games and media activities in the Dallas area underscores the region's growing prominence in the world of soccer.
Dan Hunt, co-chair of the Dallas organizing committee for the World Cup and president of FC Dallas, expressed his excitement about the opportunity, highlighting the legacy of his late father, Lamar Hunt, in bringing the broadcast center and World Cup matches to Dallas in 1994. The Hunt family, known for their sports ownership including the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs, continues to be instrumental in elevating Dallas as a top destination for major sporting events.
To prepare for the influx of media and visitors, the Dallas City Council approved up to $15 million in infrastructure upgrades for the convention center, despite plans for its eventual replacement by 2029. Situated just 18 miles from AT&T Stadium, the convention center's strategic location will ensure a seamless experience for both media personnel and fans attending the matches.
With Canada and Mexico also hosting games during the 2026 World Cup, the tournament promises to be a vibrant celebration of soccer across North America, with Dallas at the forefront of the action.