Economic Impact

How FIFA World Cup 2026™ Will Transform DFW

From historic economic growth to enhanced community spirit, discover the profound impact the World Cup will have on Dallas-Fort Worth

By The Numbers

The projected impact on our region

$400M
Economic Impact
Estimated revenue generation for DFW
3,000
Jobs Created
New employment opportunities
100K
Daily Visitors
Expected at fan festivals for 35 days
9
Matches Hosted
Most of any host city

Impact Areas

How the World Cup will benefit DFW across multiple sectors

Economic Growth

  • Estimated $400 million in revenue generation
  • Creation of 3,000 new jobs across various sectors
  • Boost to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants
  • Increased tax revenue for infrastructure improvements
  • Long-term economic benefits from enhanced global visibility

Tourism & Hospitality

  • 100,000 daily visitors expected at fan festivals
  • International tourists from 48+ participating nations
  • DFW Airport ready as 2nd busiest commercial airport
  • Hotel bookings spanning 35+ days of festivities
  • Showcase Dallas as premier international destination

Community Development

  • Youth soccer programs and camps expansion
  • Enhanced community engagement and spirit
  • Building on FC Dallas legacy since 1996
  • Creating lasting sports infrastructure
  • Fostering multicultural connections

Infrastructure & Venues

  • AT&T Stadium: 90,000+ seating capacity
  • Retractable roof for weather protection
  • Texas Live!, Globe Life, Choctaw Stadium nearby
  • Combined capacity for 100,000+ watch parties
  • World-class facilities ready for global stage

Historical Success: 1994 World Cup

Dallas has a proven track record of successfully hosting the FIFA World Cup. In 1994, the city served as a host venue and FIFA placed its tournament headquarters and International Broadcast Centre right here in Dallas.

$300M
Revenue generated in 1994
Equivalent to $600M today
1996
FC Dallas founded
After players started youth programs

The legacy of 1994 continues today with FC Dallas, one of the most passionate soccer communities in the nation, and a thriving youth soccer culture that developed from camps and clubs started by players who stayed after the tournament.

Why Dallas-Fort Worth?

DFW's unique advantages as a World Cup host city

World-Class Venues

AT&T Stadium: 90,000+ capacity with retractable roof. One of the largest and most technologically advanced stadiums globally.

Premier Connectivity

DFW International Airport is the 2nd busiest commercial airport, perfectly positioned to welcome international visitors.

Passionate Community

North Texas is home to one of the most ardent soccer communities in America, with FC Dallas as a cornerstone.

Historic FIFA First

For the first time ever, FIFA is allowing host cities to assemble a Local Organizing Committee with unprecedented authority.

Committee Powers

  • Sell local sponsorships
  • Control local branding
  • Coordinate regional events

Local Benefits

  • Revenue stays in DFW
  • Community representation
  • Long-term partnerships

Be Part of the Economic Transformation

Whether you're a business owner, community leader, or passionate fan, there are opportunities to participate in this historic event

Content sourced from research by Faizah Fatima, Islamic School of Irving, in collaboration with the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth.

Economic projections based on FIFA World Cup 2026™ host city data and historical analysis of the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA™.