DALLAS — With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just seven months away, North Texas officials are intensifying preparations for what they describe as an unprecedented security effort to support the global event, NBC DFW reported.
Dallas emergency management and police officials briefed city council members on Nov. 10, outlining the wide scope of planning required for the 39-day tournament, which is expected to bring tens of thousands of international visitors, dignitaries and media personnel to the region.
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“This scale is unlike anything we’ve hosted here in North Texas,” said Travis Houston, deputy director of emergency management and crisis response for the city of Dallas.
He noted that planning now involves 25 local public safety agencies and multiple state and federal partners, with an estimated 27 venues and event sites requiring public safety coverage, according to the report.
Dallas and AT&T Stadium are slated to host nine matches, placing the city among the busiest host locations in North America. Fan Fest at Fair Park is expected to draw crowds of up to 35,000 per day, while the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center will serve as the International Broadcast Center, hosting thousands of media professionals from around the world.
Houston emphasized the wide range of preparations underway, including credentialing, cybersecurity, infrastructure coordination and dignitary protection, according to the report.
The FBI will lead a Joint Operations Center to coordinate efforts between federal, state and local agencies. Dallas police are also developing a comprehensive emergency action plan, which will continue to adapt as the event approaches and as base camp selections, team draws and international developments unfold.
Officials said security planning will remain a top priority as Dallas prepares to take the global stage during one of the world’s largest sporting events.
