FIFA selects Dallas to host the International Broadcast Centre for the highly anticipated World Cup in 2026

Dallas, Texas – The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be one of the most expansive and widely broadcasted tournaments in history, and Dallas will play a key role in ensuring seamless global coverage. FIFA has officially selected the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas as the home for the International Broadcast Centre (IBC), the operational hub for media coverage of the prestigious tournament.

A Global Media Hub for Seven Months

From January to July 2026, the IBC will serve as the command center for television, radio, and digital media operations, spanning an enormous 45,000 square meters (485,000 square feet). The facility will accommodate approximately 2,000 broadcast media professionals, ensuring billions of football fans worldwide receive uninterrupted coverage of the tournament, which will be hosted across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

This marks the second time Dallas has been entrusted with this prestigious responsibility, having previously hosted the International Broadcast Centre during the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA™.

FIFA Partners With Host Broadcast Services for Unmatched Coverage

The FIFA-appointed Host Broadcaster, Host Broadcast Services (HBS), will oversee the technical and operational aspects of broadcasting. HBS has successfully provided broadcast services for the past six FIFA World Cups, bringing expertise in world-class operations and cutting-edge technology to ensure unmatched global coverage. “With the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to redefine the global football experience, we’re proud to have confirmed the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas as the International Broadcast Centre, because it is a world-class facility that will provide top-tier services for media professionals from around the globe,” said FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström.

Grafström emphasized that FIFA’s commitment to excellence in media operations will be strengthened by Dallas’ modern infrastructure and the technical expertise of HBS.

Dallas Mayor and Local Leaders Celebrate the Announcement

The selection of Dallas as the host city for the IBC is being hailed as a significant achievement for the region. “Being selected as host city of the FIFA World Cup 2026 International Broadcast Centre is a monumental win for Dallas and a testament to our global appeal and readiness to shine on the world stage,” said Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson.

He highlighted that the event will showcase Dallas’ rich culture, vibrant city life, and strong hospitality, as thousands of international media representatives experience the city. “Securing the International Broadcast Centre firmly places the city of Dallas and our North Texas region at the center of the world’s attention during FIFA World Cup 2026,” said North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee President Monica Paul.

Paul noted that thousands of media professionals will not only be working from Dallas but will also be promoting the city to millions of global viewers.

Comprehensive Services for Media Professionals

The IBC will be more than just a workspace—it will be a fully functional hub, offering services tailored to meet the demands of the global broadcast workforce. These services include:

• A 24-hour cafeteria to accommodate different time zones and work schedules
• Lounge areas and concession stands for relaxation and refreshments
• A convenience store and a gift shop for daily necessities
• Express shipping services for fast document and equipment transfers
• Banking services and dry cleaning for the convenience of media personnel

The state-of-the-art facilities will ensure that broadcasters can focus solely on delivering world-class coverage to audiences in over 200 countries worldwide.

Economic Impact and Local Business Opportunities

The selection of Dallas as the IBC host city is expected to generate significant economic opportunities for local businesses. Following unanimous approval from the Dallas City Council on December 11, 2024, the project is set to open doors for local and minority-owned businesses, allowing them to bid for contracts related to convention center operations.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is projected to be one of the biggest sporting events in history, and Dallas is at the heart of the action. With world-class facilities, cutting-edge technology, and a thriving media industry, the city is ready to deliver an unparalleled global broadcast experience for football fans across the world.