Architect Behind AT&T Stadium Says World Cup Vision Was Built Into Venue From Day One

Courtesy: HKS

ARLINGTON, Texas (TXAN 24) — As Arlington prepares to host a record nine FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, the architect behind AT&T Stadium says the global event is the realization of a vision that began decades ago.

Fred Ortiz, Director of Sports and Entertainment at HKS and one of the architects behind AT&T Stadium, spoke with TXAN 24 News about the stadium’s design, its impact on Arlington’s Entertainment District, and what the World Cup means for North Texas.

Ortiz said flexibility was a driving force behind the stadium’s design. Rather than creating a venue used only for NFL games, HKS envisioned a facility capable of hosting a wide variety of events, including the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Fours, Olympic Trials, concerts and eventually the FIFA World Cup.

“We like to think of our projects as machines,” Ortiz said. “Machines that are flexible and can adapt to different experiences.”

Since opening in 2009, AT&T Stadium has become the centerpiece of Arlington’s growing Entertainment District, which now includes Globe Life Field, Texas Live!, hotels, museums and other attractions that draw visitors year-round.

Ortiz credited Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones’ long-term vision for helping transform the area into a destination capable of attracting major international events.

With fans expected to arrive from around the world, Ortiz believes the World Cup will showcase both Texas and North Texas on a global stage.

“People are going to create memories here,” he said. “They’re going to share those experiences worldwide.”

Looking ahead, Ortiz said HKS plans to study visitor behavior, movement patterns and fan experiences during the tournament to help shape the next generation of sports and entertainment venues.

“The World Cup is unique,” Ortiz said. “We’re always learning from how people use these spaces so we can influence what comes next.”

Arlington is set to host more World Cup matches than any other venue in the United States during the 2026 tournament.