North Texas to Receive $61M in Federal Funds for 2026 FIFA World Cup Prep

The funds will support security, transportation, and regional coordination ahead of the global tournament.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:22pm

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The North Central Texas Council of Governments will manage and distribute more than $61 million in federal funding to support safety, security, transportation, and operations tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The funding package includes $51.5 million allocated across North Texas through a FEMA grant program and an additional $10 million from the Federal Transit Administration to enhance public transportation systems.

Why it matters

North Texas is preparing to host nine matches at AT&T Stadium, including a semifinal, as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The federal funding will help ensure the region is ready to safely and efficiently accommodate the expected surge of visitors for this major global sporting event.

The details

The North Central Texas Council of Governments was selected by the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee and the Office of the Governor to administer the FEMA funds. Its responsibilities include coordinating distribution to local governments, ensuring compliance, providing training, and overseeing reimbursement and audit readiness. The transit funding will expand service, improve access to venues, and increase capacity to handle the influx of fans.

  • The federal funding announcement was made on March 26, 2026.

The players

North Central Texas Council of Governments

A regional planning commission that coordinates transportation, environmental, and economic development programs for the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.

North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee

The local organizing committee responsible for preparing the North Texas region to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Todd Little

Executive Director of the North Central Texas Council of Governments.

Karla Windsor

A representative from the North Central Texas Council of Governments.

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What they’re saying

“Serving in this role reflects the core mission of the North Central Texas Council of Governments — bringing local governments together to solve complex regional challenges. By coordinating these resources and supporting our partners, we are helping ensure North Texas is prepared to deliver a safe, successful and globally competitive World Cup.”

— Todd Little, Executive Director, North Central Texas Council of Governments

“This investment will help ensure our region is prepared to move fans safely and efficiently throughout North Texas.”

— Karla Windsor, Representative, North Central Texas Council of Governments

What’s next

The North Central Texas Council of Governments will begin distributing the federal funds to local governments and transportation agencies in the coming months to support their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The takeaway

The $61 million in federal funding demonstrates the significant investment and coordination required to host a major global sporting event like the FIFA World Cup. By bringing together local governments and transportation providers, North Texas is working to ensure a safe, efficient, and successful tournament for players and fans alike.