Dallas Suburbs Threaten to Secede from DART Ahead of World Cup

Potential transportation disruptions loom as suburban cities consider withdrawing from regional transit system.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A dispute between Dallas and several suburban cities over the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system is threatening to disrupt transportation plans for the upcoming 2026 World Cup games in the region. Suburban cities have held elections to consider leaving the DART system, arguing they are not receiving sufficient value for their contributions, which could force the closure of train stations and bus routes just as the World Cup matches are set to begin in June.

Why it matters

The potential for suburban cities to depart the regional DART system so close to a major international event highlights the complex challenges of coordinating infrastructure and services across municipal boundaries. A disruption to DART service could significantly impact the fan experience and the overall success of the Dallas World Cup hosting effort, which is expected to draw nearly 4 million visitors.

The details

Beginning late last year, a half-dozen suburban cities held elections to consider leaving the DART system. Critics argued that their cities were not receiving sufficient value for their contributions and sought to withdraw. A large-scale departure from DART could force the closure of train stations and bus routes just as the World Cup matches are set to begin in June. Tournament organizers are depending on the DART system, alongside charter buses, to move fans to the nine World Cup games scheduled in the Dallas region.

  • The suburban cities began calling elections to leave the DART system starting late last year.
  • The nine World Cup games scheduled in the Dallas region are set to begin in June 2026.

The players

DART

The Dallas Area Rapid Transit system, which tournament organizers are depending on to move fans to the World Cup games.

Dallas

The city of Dallas, which is in a dispute with several suburban cities over the DART system.

Suburban Cities

A half-dozen suburban cities that have held elections to consider leaving the DART system, arguing they are not receiving sufficient value for their contributions.

World Cup Organizers

The organizers of the 2026 World Cup, who are relying on the DART system and charter buses to move fans to the nine games scheduled in the Dallas region.

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What’s next

Texas officials will find a way to address the concerns of the suburban cities and prevent them from leaving the DART system. Alternatively, the cities may proceed with their secession, requiring tournament organizers to rely more heavily on charter buses. A final outcome remains uncertain.

The takeaway

This dispute underscores the importance of regional cooperation and coordination when hosting a major international event like the World Cup. Failure to resolve the DART issue could significantly impact the fan experience and the overall success of the Dallas World Cup hosting effort.