Texan Golden Boot Sculpture Coming to North Texas for World Cup

Fans can buy engraved bricks to be part of the permanent World Cup legacy

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A new public art sculpture called the "Texan Golden Boot" will be erected in Arlington, Texas ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The sculpture, made from locally sourced reclaimed metal, will serve as a permanent legacy of the World Cup in North Texas. Fans can purchase engraved bricks ranging from $500 to $5,000 to be placed around the sculpture, ensuring their contribution remains connected to this piece of World Cup history.

Why it matters

The Texan Golden Boot sculpture will create a lasting landmark to commemorate North Texas hosting the World Cup. By allowing fans to purchase engraved bricks, the organizers are giving the community a chance to be part of the World Cup's legacy in the region, which will outlast the tournament itself.

The details

The Texan Golden Boot sculpture will be created by internationally recognized sculptor Steve Ekpenisi and curated by Street Art for Mankind. Major donors who contribute $50,000 or more will receive permanent recognition on the base of the sculpture. Funds raised through the "Buy a Brick" campaign will be managed by the North Texas Sports Foundation and used to support youth access to sports, healthy public spaces, community art, education, and ticket access for local nonprofits.

  • The Texan Golden Boot sculpture will be erected in the Arlington Entertainment District prior to the 2026 World Cup.

The players

Steve Ekpenisi

An internationally recognized sculptor who will create the Texan Golden Boot sculpture.

Street Art for Mankind

The organization that will curate and produce the Texan Golden Boot sculpture.

North Texas FWC Organizing Committee

The committee that unveiled the plans for the Texan Golden Boot sculpture and the accompanying "Buy a Brick" campaign.

North Texas Sports Foundation

The organization that will steward the funds raised through the Texan Golden Boot and "Buy a Brick" campaign to invest in initiatives focused on long-term community impact, sustainability, and ethical development.

Jim Ross

The mayor of Arlington, Texas, who spoke about the significance of the Texan Golden Boot sculpture and the World Cup legacy it will create.

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What they’re saying

“This summer, the eyes of the world will be on North Texas, and it is a profound honor to welcome the global community to Arlington. While the tournament brings us together for a moment, the Texan Golden Boot ensures that its spirit remains a permanent part of our landscape. Public art does more than beautify a space; it reflects who we are.”

— Jim Ross, Mayor of Arlington (wfaa.com)

“This is how North Texas turns a global moment into something permanent. The Golden Boot creates a physical place where leadership and community come together. When the World Cup leaves, this legacy will remain and tell the story of a region that invested in its people and its future.”

— Monica Paul, President of the North Texas FWC Organizing Committee (wfaa.com)

What’s next

The final location and sculpture unveiling date for the Texan Golden Boot are still to be determined.

The takeaway

The Texan Golden Boot sculpture and accompanying "Buy a Brick" campaign are a unique way for the North Texas community to be a part of the World Cup's lasting legacy in the region. By investing in public art and community initiatives, the organizers are ensuring that the spirit of the tournament remains long after the games have ended.