During the World Cup, NRG Stadium in Houston will be temporarily renamed Houston Stadium. FIFA rules require corporate names to be removed for the tournament, so NRG signage will be covered and broadcasters will use the temporary name, according to KHOU.
The World Cup draw set the stage for next summer’s matches, including five group stage games in Houston from June 14 to June 26, 2026, with knockout rounds on June 29 and July 4, 2026. Locals are gearing up for the event, with Cory Roth, who secured tickets for all seven Houston games, saying, "We’re super excited about the energy, seeing world class soccer, the absolute best soccer in the world," while local artist Betirri added, "It's a surreal moment to have a World Cup in Houston next year," as reported by Houston Chronicle.
The draw event also had political undertones, with former President Donald Trump suggesting the sport be called football in the U.S. and offering to deploy troops for potential security issues. Trump was further recognized with the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, with The Houston Chronicle noting, "From the moment Infantino announced the award, it appeared destined to go the U.S. president," as Houston officials and fans alike celebrated the upcoming tournament.
