FIFA officially opened its International Broadcast Center in Dallas on Monday, unveiling the facility that will serve as the broadcast and technology hub for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The facility will also house FIFA’s football-related technology operations, including VAR (video assistant referee) reviews, stadium screen management and quality control of graphics and replays.
“Six billion people around the world are going to watch the World Cup, are going to be involved in the World Cup. And they can do it thanks to all of you. So you are here, in this International Broadcasting Center (IBC), exactly at the heart, at the epicenter of this wave which will start from here and which, in turn, after having conquered this place, will conquer the world with football, or soccer, or whatever you want to call it, as long as you can transmit this happiness and this joy to everyone.declared Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA.
Attendees were also introduced to “Spot,” a robotic dog that FIFA officials say will help ensure the security of the facilities throughout the tournament.
“It really is the nerve center of the World Cup, isn’t it? Without this installation, nothing would be broadcast to the world. The event would then be limited to the stadium. And it’s not just a broadcast center, it’s a technology center dedicated to football. This is where our VAR operation takes place. All of our stadium screens during live matches are managed from here, allowing us to ensure consistency in the use of replays, graphics and everything else, and to exercise quality control. HAS”said Heimo Schirgi, FIFA director of events operations.
According to the FIFA president, the center will play a key role in bringing the tournament to fans around the world.
