The City of Dallas is actively preparing for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, now just seven months away. The Dallas Public Safety Committee recently discussed comprehensive plans to ensure safety and security during the event, which will take place from June 11 to July 19. While the nine matches will occur at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Dallas will serve as a critical hub for various World Cup activities.
Key Roles and Anticipated Crowds
Dallas is set to host the International Broadcast Center at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center and the FIFA Fan Festival at Fair Park. Daily attendance at Fair Park is expected to reach 35,000 visitors, while the convention center will accommodate around 2,000 journalists from around the world. Additionally, training sites will be established at Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the Cotton Bowl, with a fan zone located at Klyde Warren Park.
In preparation for this influx of visitors, the city is exploring the possibility of resource sharing with surrounding areas to enhance safety and logistics.
Addressing Safety Concerns
During the recent meeting, officials highlighted major safety challenges, particularly regarding the extreme summer heat. This concern is compounded by the potential for medical emergencies among visitors who may not be acclimated to high temperatures. Travis Houston, deputy director of emergency management, noted the need for a robust medical response plan, especially considering the likelihood of severe storms during June.
“We have to plan for the normal things; extreme summer heat, medical surge. We’ve had some of the biggest storms in my time here in June. Basically, the scale is unlike anything we’ve hosted in North Texas,” said Houston.
Concerns about crowd control and pedestrian safety were also raised. Jesse Moreno, chairman of the Dallas Public Safety Committee, expressed worries about the absence of permanent barricades in entertainment districts expected to see considerable pedestrian traffic during the tournament.
In response, Mark Villarreal from the Dallas Police Department assured that the city is developing a comprehensive plan to safeguard pedestrian safety in these high-traffic areas.
Logistical Preparations and Future Updates
Preparations for the International Broadcast Center will commence on January 14, and the exclusive use of the convention center for FIFA activities will extend until August 24. The draw to determine which countries will play in North Texas is scheduled for December 5, providing further clarity on the teams that will participate.
In the spring, additional announcements will reveal which teams will utilize base camps for training, with locations including FC Dallas Stadium in Frisco, the University of North Texas in Denton, Mansfield Multipurpose Stadium, and TCU in Fort Worth.
As Dallas gears up for this monumental event, the city’s commitment to safety, crowd management, and logistical efficiency remains a priority, ensuring a successful and secure experience for all involved in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
