Under clear skies and an even brighter sense of anticipation, Sunny South Dallas took
center stage Tuesday as city leaders, FIFA partners, and community members officially
opened the FIFA World Cup Volunteer Center at Fair Park.
The new hub, located inside the historic Food and Fiber Pavilion, marks a major
milestone in Dallas’s march toward hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The ceremony drew representatives from the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing
Committee, Dallas City Council, Park and Recreation Board, and numerous community
organizations. With Dallas set to host nine World Cup matches, more than any other
North American city, enthusiasm for the global tournament continues to build throughout
the region.
Monica Paul, president of the organizing committee, hailed the opening as the
beginning of the volunteer selection journey for more than 6,000 individuals who will
support operations across North Texas. “Volunteers are truly the backbone of any
successful sporting event,” Paul said, praising the overwhelming community response.
Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert highlighted both the pride and opportunity
rooted in the neighborhood hosting the new center.
“Good morning, Sunny South Dallas. Y’all look so good out there,” Tolbert said,
celebrating the community’s role in welcoming the world.
Tolbert emphasized the city’s united commitment to delivering an unforgettable
experience next summer. “We’re going to clean up real nice, and we’re going to look
good for the world,” she said, adding that every department—from public safety to
cultural affairs—is aligned to ensure Dallas shines on the global stage.
Local leaders echoed her message of unity and excitement. Mayor Pro Tem Jesse
Moreno praised Dallas volunteers as the city’s future ambassadors, ready to greet
visitors “with a smile and a strong willingness to help.” Council member Chad West
emphasized that the World Cup is “for everybody,” promising opportunities for all
residents to participate, whether as volunteers or attendees.
Park Board representatives Lane Conner and Daniel Wood reflected on Fair Park’s
legacy and its evolving role as a home for global events. They celebrated FIFA’s
transformation of the Food and Fiber Pavilion and reaffirmed commitments to
community-centered improvements in the surrounding neighborhoods.
After remarks ended, officials gathered in front of the pavilion for a ceremonial ribbon
cutting, marking the official launch of the volunteer center. As scissors closed and
applause rose, the moment symbolized both the city’s readiness and South Dallas’s
pride in hosting one of the world’s most watched sporting events.
Guests were then invited inside to tour the new space—now energized with imagery
blending Dallas’s heritage and FIFA’s international identity—setting the tone for the
thousands of volunteers who will walk through its doors in the months ahead.
With the World Cup fast approaching, Tuesday’s celebration affirmed what many
leaders repeated throughout the morning: Dallas is prepared, South Dallas is shining,
and the world is on its way.