DALLAS — North Texas leaders are looking to build on the success of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they pursue bids for more major international sporting events.
The Dallas-Fort Worth region hosted nine World Cup matches over 31 days, drawing more than 630,000 fans to the games, according to FIFA. Millions of additional visitors traveled to the metroplex during the tournament.
Organizers said transportation and public safety, two of the biggest concerns before the event, exceeded expectations. Transit systems operated without major issues, while police in Dallas and Arlington reported only a small number of arrests and no significant crime incidents.
The tournament was projected to generate a $2 billion economic impact for the region. Although final economic figures have not been released, officials said early indicators point to a successful event.
Monica Paul, executive director of the Dallas Sports Commission, praised the tournament’s execution, saying years of planning resulted in a smooth operation. She said concerns over parking and public transit, including service through CentrePort Station, did not materialize.
Organizers will now review operational data and after-action reports as they prepare bids for future events, including the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Super Bowl, the NBA and WNBA All-Star Games, and the College Football Playoff National Championship.
The tournament was not without controversy. A lawsuit over the covering of the Wyland Whale mural in downtown Dallas prevented a planned World Cup-themed mural from being completed. Paul declined to comment on the dispute, citing the ongoing legal case.