The 2026 FIFA World Cup countdown is on, and North Texas is just 11 months away from hosting the first of nine matches.
It’s the second time the big event has come to town, and one Dallas officer’s memories of the 1994 World Cup are still fresh.
As a member of the Dallas police force, there are no dull days.
“It is different every single day that I’ve been here,” said Dallas Police Executive Assistant Chief Jesse Reyes.
Over the last 41 years, Reyes has worked many major events.
“As big as the Super Bowl and the World Series are, as big as the National Basketball Association Finals are, they pale in comparison to the World Cup,” said Reyes.
A Dallas police officer recalls working the World Cup the last time games were played in North Texas, in 1994.
Reyes was a field commander during the 1994 FIFA World Cup. He was in charge of protecting players and coaches on the pitch.
He said the electric atmosphere at games stands out most from the experience. He worked all six matches at the Cotton Bowl.
“Soccer fans are on a different level,” said Reyes.
Although all nine games next year will be played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, the City of Dallas will host teams, a fan fest and the international broadcast center.
NBC 5 News
NBC 5 News
A special issue Dallas police badge from the 2026 World Cup.
“I’m trying to contain my excitement,” said Reyes, who is also a soccer fan.
He said about 150 of the department’s 3,100 officers were on the force during the ’94 World Cup, a badge worn with pride.
“Obviously, to participate one time is something you tell stories to your grandkids about, but having the opportunity to participate twice,” he explained, “I’m trying to contain my excitement about that.”