Houston World Cup Host Committee Formally Takes Over NRG Stadium — Pitch Installation Begins, 7 Matches to be Played June 14–July 4

Houston's World Cup 2026 host committee formally took over NRG Stadium and the East Downtown Fan Festival site on May 1, marking the beginning of the final transformation phase. Commercial branding has been removed from the stadium's exterior and interior; World Cup pitch installation — to FIFA-specified hybrid grass dimensions — is underway. The venue, referred to as 'Houston Stadium' during the tournament to comply with FIFA's clean-stadium policy, will host seven matches from June 14 through July 4, making it one of the busiest US venues. Houston's climate — summer temperatures averaging 90°F with high humidity — has drawn attention from sports scientists concerned about player welfare in afternoon kickoffs. The East Downtown Fan Festival site, adjacent to the stadium, is being prepared to accommodate tens of thousands of non-ticketed fans per match day.