North Texas Officials Prepare 2026 FIFA World Cup Transportation Plan

North Texas is gearing up to host nine matches, including a semifinal, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With two years left before the event, local officials are laying the groundwork for moving tens of thousands of fans and staff daily. The focus is on managing transportation at AT&T Stadium, the primary venue in Arlington, a city lacking extensive public transit.

On Thursday, officials will meet to finalize plans and funding, aiming to submit a detailed transportation strategy to FIFA by March. The plan includes a dedicated express lane for charter buses with direct access to the stadium and a reversible ramp system to streamline traffic.

Michael Morris, transportation director for the North Central Texas Council of Governments (COG), leads the planning team. Having handled transportation for Super Bowl 45, Morris feels confident in managing the expected influx of visitors.

The strategy will rely on four main modes: freeways, express lanes, charter buses, and DART rail, with Fair Park in Dallas serving as the fan fest location. During the Texas-OU game, DART faced train delays, which prompted officials to include backup bus options to avoid future congestion.

With extensive experience hosting large events like the Super Bowl and Final Four, North Texas officials feel optimistic about delivering a smooth transportation experience for World Cup fans.