ZURICH: The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas has been selected as the official hub for the 2026 World Cup’s International Broadcast Centre.

From January until the end of July 2026, the IBC will act as the nerve centre for television, radio and new media operations, spanning 45,000 square metres (485,000 square feet). As the telecommunications hub for national and international media, the IBC is expected to ensure the tournament reaches billions of fans worldwide.

Dallas also hosted the IBC during the 1994 finals.

The IBC will be headquarters for Host Broadcast Services, FIFA’s appointed host broadcaster which has served the last six World Cups.

FIFA secretary-general Mattias Grafström said: “With the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to redefine the global football experience, we’re proud to have confirmed the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas as the International Broadcast Centre, because it is a world-class facility that will provide top‑tier services for media professionals from around the globe.

“This partnership highlights our dedication to maintaining the highest standards for broadcast operations. With its modern infrastructure and the expertise of our Host Broadcaster, HBS, the IBC will offer an optimal environment for broadcasters and media professionals to deliver compelling storytelling.

“In addition, media representatives from around the world will have the opportunity to discover Dallas, a dynamic city that combines modern urban attractions with deep-rooted history, and legendary sports teams that captivate fans across the globe.”

The IBC will be home to approximately 2,000 broadcast media representatives for seven months and also serve as the headquarters for FIFA’s host broadcaster, media partners, content production department and football technology and innovation department.

The IBC will offer a range of services to meet the needs of the large group of experts, specialists and staff helping to take the World Cup to more than 200 countries.

These services include a 24-hour cafeteria, a lounge, concession stands, a convenience store, a gift shop, express shipping, banking and dry cleaning.

The announcement follows the unanimous approval of the plans by the Dallas City Council on December 11.

#######