The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature matches at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which carries an official capacity of 80,000 spectators, expandable to 94,000 for major events. As one of the primary host venues for the tournament, the stadium is scheduled to host nine matches, the highest number of any venue in the competition.
Venue Capacity and Tournament Role
AT&T Stadium, home to the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, is a centerpiece of the 2026 tournament. While the stadium’s standard capacity for professional football is 80,000, FIFA confirmed the venue will accommodate up to 94,000 fans for World Cup matches through the installation of additional seating. This capacity makes it the largest venue in the expanded 48-team tournament. According to FIFA’s official host city documentation, the stadium will host matches throughout the group stage and the knockout rounds, including a semifinal match.
Tournament Scheduling and Broadcast Information
Matches held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico are subject to specific broadcast windows tailored to global audiences. For viewers in Switzerland, Swiss public broadcaster SRF (Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen) holds the primary rights for tournament coverage.
Broadcasts are typically accessible via the SRF two television channel and the official SRF Sport mobile application. Given the time zone difference between North America and Central Europe, evening programming in Switzerland often aligns with afternoon or early evening kick-offs in the Central Time Zone. Viewers should consult the SRF Sport program guide closer to the specific match dates for accurate local start times, as these are subject to change based on FIFA’s final scheduling adjustments.
Expert Analysis in Broadcast Coverage
SRF’s match coverage frequently integrates professional analysis to provide tactical context for European audiences. The broadcaster typically invites former players, coaches, and sports analysts to its studio in Zurich to dissect match performance. Marc Schneider, a former professional footballer and experienced coach, is among the experts frequently featured in the SRF studio lineup. These segments aim to bridge the gap between the live action in North America and the technical expectations of the Swiss viewing public.
Key Facts for Spectators and Viewers
- Venue Name: AT&T Stadium (Arlington, Texas).
- Tournament Capacity: 94,000 seats.
- Total Matches: Nine, including a semifinal.
- Swiss Rights Holder: SRF (Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen).
- Primary Viewing Platforms: SRF two and the SRF Sport App.
The 2026 tournament marks the first time the FIFA World Cup will be hosted by three nations simultaneously. With 48 teams participating, the concentration of matches in high-capacity venues like AT&T Stadium is intended to maximize attendance records and accommodate the increased demand for tickets compared to previous tournament cycles.