City of Dallas outlines coordinated planning efforts as city prepares for FIFA World Cup 2026
Dallas, Texas – Dallas leaders are continuing preparations for one of the largest sporting events in the world, as the Dallas City Council received a detailed update on the city’s planning and coordination efforts tied to the FIFA World Cup 2026.
City officials said the briefing highlighted Dallas’ strong focus on readiness, cooperation, and ensuring that the global tournament delivers lasting benefits for local neighborhoods long after the final match is played. The update outlined how the city is using a cross-departmental planning approach, working closely with regional, state, federal, and private-sector partners to manage the scale and complexity of the event.
Coordinated planning across departments and partners
According to city staff, planning efforts are centered on several major areas, including event operations, transportation and mobility, public safety, infrastructure readiness, communications, and long-term legacy opportunities. Officials stressed that preparations are not limited to the tournament itself, but are designed to strengthen city systems and infrastructure for years to come.
As part of the briefing, the Council was updated on progress related to the FIFA World Cup 2026 International Broadcast Center, a major operational hub for global media coverage of the tournament. FIFA officially took occupancy of the site on January 14, marking an important milestone. City departments coordinated closely to support site readiness, while also completing capital improvements that enhance the facility and surrounding area beyond tournament needs.
“Today’s briefing reflects the steady, methodical work underway to ensure Dallas is prepared to host events associated with the FIFA World Cup 2026,” said Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. “Our goal is to deliver a safe, successful international event while maximizing economic and community benefits for Dallas residents.”
City staff outlined several key focus areas during the update. These include ongoing coordination with FIFA and neighboring host cities, planning across city operations and public safety teams, preparation for international visitors and global media, and continued review of transportation, infrastructure, and security needs. Officials also emphasized legacy planning as a major priority, ensuring that investments tied to the World Cup help support long-term economic growth and community impact.
Economic impact and long-term benefits
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted across multiple cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and is expected to draw millions of visitors. Dallas leaders said North Texas stands to see significant economic activity tied to tourism, hospitality, media operations, and supporting industries.
City officials noted that planning efforts are being carefully aligned with existing city priorities and processes. This approach is meant to ensure responsible use of public resources while allowing Dallas to take full advantage of the global spotlight the tournament will bring.
Representatives from the City of Dallas said collaboration remains central to the effort, with departments sharing data, coordinating timelines, and preparing jointly for large-scale logistics. Officials added that strong partnerships with surrounding jurisdictions will be critical, especially for transportation, public safety, and visitor movement across the region.
City leaders said updates will continue as planning advances and additional milestones are reached. The goal, officials emphasized, is not only to host a successful World Cup experience, but also to leave behind improvements that benefit Dallas residents well into the future.
