Fort Worth Gears Up for 2026 FIFA World Cup with Watch Party and Team Base Camp Plans

Fort Worth's Role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup

• 🎯 Fort Worth is preparing to host soccer fans and teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a focus on showcasing the city's entertainment districts.
• 🔑 Drew Hays, appointed sports commissioner in September, and his team are responsible for getting Fort Worth ready for the major event.

World Cup Grouping Watch Party at Billy Bob's

• 🎶 A huge FIFA watch party is planned at Billy Bob's Texas, a famous country music nightclub and entertainment venue, to celebrate the team competition groupings announcement on December 5th.
• 🎪 The venue, spanning 100,000 square feet and capable of hosting over 6,000 people, will feature live music and a DJ.
• 📍 The event aims to draw people to Fort Worth and promote the city as a destination.

Fort Worth as a Potential Team Base Camp

• 🏕️ Fort Worth has the potential to host a nation for training throughout the entire World Cup, with TCU designated as a potential base camp for soccer teams.
• ✍️ Even backstage at Billy Bob's, a special spot is reserved on the green room wall for soccer player autographs, alongside country music stars.

Economic Impact and Fan Engagement

• 📈 The city's 2026 tourism direct spending is already estimated at $88 million, not including the FIFA World Cup.
• 🎟️ Commissioner Hayes encourages fans to get their watch party tickets in advance, emphasizing that the event is for everyone, not just soccer fans, as Billy Bob's regularly sells out.