Perot Museum debuts interactive soccer science exhibit ahead of World Cup

The 'Soccer: More Than a Game' exhibit explores the hidden science and strategy behind the sport.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas has opened a new 10,000-square-foot interactive exhibit called 'Soccer: More Than a Game' that invites visitors to explore the science, technology, and engineering behind the world's most popular sport. The exhibit features hands-on stations where guests can design their own soccer stadiums, create team jerseys and mascots, and test their skills against soccer stars like Cristiano Ronaldo.

Why it matters

As Dallas prepares to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Perot Museum's new soccer-themed exhibit aims to engage visitors of all ages in the hidden science behind the sport. By highlighting the engineering, biomechanics, and mental strategies involved in soccer, the exhibit hopes to foster a deeper appreciation for the game.

The details

The 'Soccer: More Than a Game' exhibit includes more than a dozen interactive stations where visitors can explore different aspects of the sport. At one station, guests can design their own mini soccer stadium using Lego-like blocks, which are then scanned and transformed into a digital model. Other stations allow visitors to create their own team jerseys and mascots, while learning about the science behind character design and fan engagement. The exhibit also features an area called the Coaching Lab for Excellence in Athletics, Technology and Science (C.L.E.A.T.S.), where guests can interact with tiny humanoid robots that can play soccer, and test whether they can jump as high as soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo.

  • The exhibit opened on March 7, 2026 and will run through September 7, 2026.
  • Dallas was named a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in 2022.

The players

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

A science museum located in Dallas, Texas that is hosting the 'Soccer: More Than a Game' exhibit.

Museo Interactivo de Economía

A museum in Mexico City that is collaborating with the Perot Museum on a companion exhibition exploring the cultural and economic impact of soccer across North America.

David Beckham

A former professional soccer player whose image and career facts are featured in the exhibit.

Lauren James

A rising English soccer star whose image and career facts are featured in the exhibit.

Pep Guardiola

The current manager of Manchester City whose image and career facts are featured in the exhibit.

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What they’re saying

“Soccer: More Than a Game' is a new exhibit at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science inviting visitors to explore the hidden science, technology, engineering...”

— Linda Silver, Chief Executive Officer, Perot Museum of Nature and Science (dallasnews.com)

What’s next

The Perot Museum's Lyda Hill Gems and Minerals Hall will also host a 'Minerals of the World Cup' exhibit featuring gems from host countries and other nations competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament.

The takeaway

By highlighting the science, technology, and engineering behind soccer, the Perot Museum's new interactive exhibit aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the world's most popular sport among visitors of all ages, just as Dallas prepares to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.