Hundreds of thousands of domestic and international visitors will be visiting Texas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Center for Health Emergency Preparedness and Response (CHEPR) is preparing to support one of the largest international events ever hosted in our state. 

About the World Cup in Texas

Dallas and Houston are hosting multiple World Cup matches in June and July. There will also be large-scale FIFA Fan Festival events in both cities.

Team Basecamp Locations

These cities will serve as basecamp for national teams:

• Austin – Saudi Arabia
• Frisco - Sweden
• Fort Worth – Czechia
• Houston – Democratic Republic of the Congo

DSHS is Ready for the World Cup

The Center for Health Emergency Preparedness and Response (CHEPR) is working alongside local, state, and federal partners to get ready. Preparation efforts ahead of game days ensure a consistent, statewide approach to any response. 

During Texas match days, the State Medical Operations Center (SMOC) will operate under a limited activation status, ready for a full activation if needed.

CHEPR and other DSHS programs are also working with local health departments to help strengthen and support epidemiologic surveillance and investigations. They are monitoring hospital and emergency services trends as well. 

These public health preparedness efforts will help make sure that Texas is ready to safely welcome visitors from around the world. 

Related Resources

Texas Ready

Extreme Heat Preparations

Poison Control: If you are concerned because you were exposed to a harmful substance or are having an adverse reaction, contact 1-800-222-1222. This Poison Help Line is free and confidential. You can also contact a health care provider.