UPDATE: The City of Dallas has just unveiled critical safety and security plans for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, happening in just 7 months. The Dallas Public Safety Committee convened on Monday to outline strategies aimed at managing the expected influx of crowds and extreme summer heat during this global event.
Although the actual matches will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Dallas is set to play a vital role as the home of the International Broadcast Center and the FIFA Fan Festival at Fair Park. This festival is anticipated to draw 35,000 visitors daily from June 11 to July 19, 2026, making it a central hub for World Cup festivities.
The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center will serve as the global media headquarters, accommodating around 2,000 journalists covering the event. With additional training sites at SMU and The Cotton Bowl, Dallas is gearing up for significant international attention.
Among the main concerns discussed were medical preparedness for the extreme heat, as many attendees may not be accustomed to the sweltering conditions. Travis Houston, deputy director of emergency management, emphasized the need for robust medical resources, stating, “We have to plan for the normal things; extreme summer heat, medical surge.”
Moreover, crowd control and storm preparedness were high on the agenda. The committee is evaluating strategies to ensure pedestrian safety in entertainment districts, especially as large crowds are expected. Jesse Moreno, chairman of the Dallas Public Safety Committee, voiced his concerns, noting the lack of permanent barricades in high-traffic areas.
Officials are committed to addressing these gaps. Mark Villarreal of the Dallas Police Department reassured the public, saying, “I can guarantee you we will have a robust plan to protect pedestrian safety.”
Setup for the International Broadcast Center is scheduled to commence on January 14, 2026, with exclusive use of the convention center for FIFA running until August 24. Anticipation is building as the draw for the teams competing in North Texas will occur on December 5, 2023, followed by announcements in the spring regarding which teams will practice locally.
In addition to Fair Park, fans can look forward to base camps at FC Dallas Stadium in Frisco, the University of North Texas in Denton, Mansfield Multipurpose Stadium, and TCU in Fort Worth.
As preparations ramp up, the city is proactively addressing potential challenges to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. With the World Cup fast approaching, Dallas is ready to embrace the global spotlight while prioritizing public safety. Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling event draws nearer!
