FIFA 2026: Dallas Recap

We're almost through July and FIFA Fever hit the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. I miss it! Everywhere I went, there was merch for sale, people's homes/rooms were up for rent in residential neighborhoods, SOOOO much art was installed (some art UNinstalled, sadly), banners hung, food and beverage specials posted, local media gimmicks (like The Ticket's Summer Chill handing out FIFA x 1310 scarves)...you know...capitalism a true fan experience!

In 1994, my first husband and I were visiting Dallas on vacation. While here, we heard the World Cup was in town, so on a whim, we found a local ticket vendor, bought some tickets and attended a game!  I couldn't remember the teams, but I reached out to my ex and he said we saw Saudi Arabia v. Sweden in the Round of 16. I remember it was at the historic Cotton Bowl, where the Red River Rivalry is played every year. I also remember that it was so damn hot. I mean, reallyfuckinghot. We were in the sun, not prepared AT ALL for this exhausting excursion! I didn't make it to any games or the Fan Fest activities, but I enjoyed the heck out of listening to stories from friends who did. 

One day, two friends of mine and I were driving around town on a bookstore crawl to celebrate a birthday. One of the stores was in Plano. Coincidentally, there was a fan festival - Japan Day - happening at the same time. Loads of people were walking the downtown Plano area, a giant stage was erected, the Mayor was hype; it was a VIBE!

Having Japan, Norway (long live Erling Braut Haaland), Croatia, England, Netherlands, Jordan, Austria, Spain (let me move there!), France, Portugal (let me live there!), Ivory Coast, Egypt, Australia and, of course, Argentina, in town was ELECTRIC. Messi scoring his record-setting goal at Dallas Stadium (colloquially known as Jerry World or The Death Star). I wonder what these players though of Sky Mirror?

 I may have little knowledge of soccer rules, but I will fully engage in these kinds of tournaments. Also, I love Ted Lasso. Of COURSE I'm a footy fan (lol - I'm such a food addict. I literally mis-typed "footy" as "foody"! #HelloFreud)! Having the Muppets, Madonna, Shakira (meh) and Justin Bieber perform at halftime was cool - not as cool as Bad Bunny during Super Bowl, but still cool. Really loved the "BELIEBE" sign.

Economically, the greater metroplex profited, of course. I just really enjoyed seeing strangers come together in public spaces, welcoming one another, accepting each other, learning about cultures. It was so refreshing.

Thanks to FIFA for scheduling the tournament in the Americas. Such a blast!