Dallas will host FIFA's International Broadcast Center for the 2026 World Cup.

Dallas City Council and FIFA leaders announced the approval at a press conference on Wednesday. The event will be held at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.

"As someone who believes Dallas is the premier sports city in the world, this announcement reinforces our city's position as a global leader in hosting events," said Councilmember Zarin D. Gracey. "The IBC is a huge milestone that highlights our relentless drive to attract and execute transformative events and opportunities."

Gracey acknowledged concerns about investing in the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, given that it is slated for redevelopment. However, he emphasized that such investments are essential for keeping the center operational and competitive during the upgrades, which are expected to be completed in 2028.  

The IBC will serve as a hub for 3,000 to 5,000 international broadcasters and staff. CBS News Texas reported in December that the FIFA-Dallas contract includes a $15 million commitment from the city for upgrades and renovations to the convention center, ensuring it meets the technical requirements of the broadcast center. 

"It's days like today that really make me love my job. We get a chance to work with so many great leaders and stakeholders who are truly passionate and committed to making Dallas a recognized a global city," City Manager Kimberly Tolbert said Wednesday. "Today, we are not just celebrating an incredible achievement for our city, [but] we are also stepping on to the global stage in a way that truly exemplifies what Dallas is all about. We are bold, we're ambitious, we're exceptional, we know how to collaborate and we deliver unmatched hospitality."

Services at the convention center will include a 24-hour cafeteria, lounge and concession stands.

"These folks are coming from around the world to do a very important job," Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said. "They're going to be here for seven months, and we have to provide them with all the things they need to be able to do their job and to live."

Monica Paul, the president of the North Texas FIFA World Cup 2026 Organizing Committee, believes the event will have a huge economic impact on the city.

"Our overall numbers are looking at $1.5 to $2.1 billion in economic impact," she said. "That takes into account the nine different matches, the International Broadcast Center being a piece of that. We feel that the International Broadcast Center will generate well over $200 million."

FIFA already has weekly meetings and several working groups, ranging from transportation to sustainability.

Rosa Fleming, the executive director of convention and event services, is optimistic that the FIFA World Cup will bring a surge of soccer excitement to Dallas.  

"I love football, I love basketball, but soccer is an international sport, and it's bringing to bear something I think that everyone can love," Fleming said. "There's an opportunity for everyone to participate, whether it's in the fan fest, going to the games, volunteering, so I think Dallas is excited."

Dallas also hosted the IBC during the 1994 FIFA World Cup.