By Rita Cook
MANSFIELD – Mansfield is a Team Base Camp option for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. But what does that mean?
According to Mansfield’s Communications Manager the project broke ground on Dec. 18, 2024, to be a Team Base Camp option after Mansfield Stadium, REV Entertainment and FC Dallas submitted an application to FIFA for consideration.
According to FIFA, “A Team Base Camp is a training site and accommodation pairing that will serve as the primary base for teams during the group stage, where they will train, rest and prepare for their matches.”
Mansfield is just one of the cities on the option list as a possible Team Base Camp.
FIFA has noted, “Teams will submit their final selections following the Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup 26™.
The draw, anticipated to be staged in December 2025, will reveal the geographic zones in which teams will play their group matches, further guiding their decisions regarding their respective Team Base Camp locations.”
Mansfield’s Communications Manager said, “This is an exciting opportunity to have more people visit our amazing community. If a nation’s team does choose Mansfield we cannot wait to welcome them and their family, friends, and fans. We hope they get the opportunity to see Mansfield beyond our upcoming stadium and visit Mansfield’s remarkable parks, stores, restaurants, and experiences.”
There are no specific requirements for the city other than ensuring the stadium is completed on time. All of the requirements to facilitate the team otherwise fall on the training site facilities and host hotel, which is separate and apart from the work Mansfield is doing to secure the stadium is ready on time.
Mansfield city leaders said the stadium will be a great addition to the city with room for 7000 fans.
“Mansfield Stadium has been a dream of the City Council and leadership for years now,” the Mansfield Communications Manager said, “The project broke ground on the stadium, and incoming home team North Texas Soccer Club, will bring a family-friendly experience that our community has been asking for. The Stadium is on track to open before FIFA World Cup play begins and then will be the home of professional soccer and other festivities year round.”
