Dallas FC President Dan Hunt has outlined the club’s ambitious vision for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and its growing influence in European football, revealing how the U.S. expansion franchise is positioning itself as a bridge between North American and global soccer. In a wide-ranging discussion, Hunt—son of former U.S. Soccer Federation president Sunil Gulati—spoke about the challenges and opportunities of hosting the tournament in North America, the club’s recent transfer dealings with Bundesliga clubs, and the broader evolution of soccer in the United States.
With the 2026 World Cup set to be the first ever held across three countries—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—Hunt emphasized Dallas FC’s role in elevating the sport’s profile in North America. “This is a historic moment for soccer in the U.S.,” Hunt said in the interview. “The World Cup is not just a tournament; it’s a catalyst for growth, and Dallas FC is committed to being at the forefront of that change.”
The club, which joined Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2020, has quickly become a model for expansion franchises, leveraging its ownership ties to European football. Hunt highlighted the club’s recent transfer partnerships with Bundesliga clubs, including Bayern Munich, as part of a broader strategy to integrate U.S. soccer into the global game. “We’re not just playing in the U.S. anymore—we’re competing on the world stage,” he noted.
Hunt also addressed the club’s financial and operational challenges, including stadium construction delays and the competitive demands of MLS. Despite these hurdles, Dallas FC has made significant strides, including securing a prime location in Frisco, Texas, and signing high-profile players like Ricardo Pepi and Folarin Balogun. The club’s 2023 season marked a turning point, with Hunt citing improved fan engagement and on-field performance as key milestones.
Why the 2026 World Cup Is a Turning Point for U.S. Soccer
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams—an expansion that Hunt believes will redefine the tournament’s global appeal. “The U.S. has the infrastructure, the passion, and the market to host a World Cup of this scale,” he said. “But it’s not just about the stadiums; it’s about growing the game at the grassroots level.”
According to FIFA, the 2026 tournament is expected to generate over $10 billion in economic impact across the three host nations, with the U.S. alone projected to see a surge in soccer participation and commercial revenue. Hunt pointed to Dallas FC’s community initiatives, such as youth academies and free training programs, as part of the club’s long-term strategy to sustain growth beyond the World Cup.
However, challenges remain. The U.S. men’s national team, despite recent successes like reaching the 2022 World Cup knockout stages, still lags behind traditional soccer powerhouses in terms of infrastructure and development. Hunt acknowledged this gap but emphasized the role of clubs like Dallas FC in closing it. “We’re investing in facilities, coaching, and scouting to ensure the next generation of American players can compete at the highest level,” he said.
Key Takeaway: The 2026 World Cup is not just a sporting event—it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the U.S. to solidify its place in global football. With Dallas FC leading the charge, the focus is on leveraging the tournament’s momentum to accelerate growth in youth soccer, fan engagement, and on-field success.
Dallas FC’s Bundesliga Connections: A Strategic Partnership
One of the most intriguing aspects of Hunt’s vision is Dallas FC’s deepening ties with European football, particularly the Bundesliga. The club has forged partnerships with Bayern Munich and other Bundesliga clubs, facilitating player transfers and technical exchanges. “The Bundesliga is the third-most-watched league in the world, and we want to bring that energy to MLS,” Hunt explained.
In 2023, Dallas FC signed Brazilian forward Ricardo Pepi from Bayer Leverkusen, a move that underscored the club’s ambition to attract high-caliber European talent. Hunt revealed that discussions with additional Bundesliga clubs are ongoing, with a focus on players who can elevate the team’s competitive standing in MLS. “We’re not just looking for stars; we’re looking for players who can help us build a sustainable, winning culture,” he said.
This strategic alignment with European football extends beyond transfers. Dallas FC has also collaborated with Bundesliga clubs on player development programs, including scouting networks and youth academies. Hunt cited the club’s partnership with Bayern Munich’s youth system as a model for how U.S. clubs can integrate European expertise into their operations.
Comparison: While MLS clubs like LAFC and Inter Miami have also pursued European partnerships, Dallas FC’s approach stands out for its focus on long-term integration rather than short-term signings. According to MLS Next, Dallas FC’s collaboration with Bayern Munich is one of the most comprehensive among U.S. franchises, involving technical staff exchanges and joint training camps.
Stadium Delays and the Road Ahead for Dallas FC
Despite its ambitions, Dallas FC has faced significant challenges, particularly with the construction of its permanent stadium. Originally scheduled to open in 2022, the project has been delayed due to funding and logistical hurdles, forcing the club to play its home games at Toyota Stadium in Frisco. Hunt acknowledged the setback but framed it as an opportunity to strengthen the team’s fan base and operational efficiency.
“We’re not just building a stadium; we’re building a legacy,” Hunt said. “The delays have given us more time to ensure the stadium meets the highest standards for fans, players, and the community.” According to The Dallas News, the stadium is now expected to open in 2025, with a capacity of approximately 25,000 seats.
The club has also faced competition within MLS, with rivals like FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew FC gaining traction in recent seasons. Hunt acknowledged the league’s growing competitiveness but emphasized Dallas FC’s unique position as a bridge between North American and European soccer. “We’re not just playing to win; we’re playing to redefine what it means to be a global soccer club,” he said.
What Happens Next: Dallas FC’s 2024 Season and Beyond
Looking ahead, Hunt outlined several key priorities for Dallas FC in the coming years. First, the club aims to secure a top-four finish in the MLS Eastern Conference, a threshold that would qualify the team for the CONCACAF Champions Cup. “Competition in MLS is fierce, but we’re confident in our squad and our coaching staff,” Hunt said.
Second, the club will continue to expand its youth academy, with a focus on developing homegrown talent. Hunt highlighted the success of players like Folarin Balogun, who has become a fan favorite, as evidence of the academy’s potential. “We want to create a pipeline where American players can thrive in MLS and beyond,” he said.
Finally, Dallas FC will maintain its partnerships with European clubs, with Hunt indicating that additional transfer deals and technical collaborations are in the works. “Our goal is to become a model for how U.S. clubs can integrate European football’s best practices while staying true to our identity,” he said.
Next Checkpoint: Dallas FC’s 2024 season kicks off in March, with the club aiming to build on its 2023 campaign. Fans can expect updates on stadium construction progress, transfer activity, and the team’s push for a playoff berth. For official updates, visit Dallas FC’s official website.
With the 2026 World Cup less than three years away, Hunt’s vision for Dallas FC—and U.S. soccer as a whole—remains focused on growth, innovation, and global integration. As the club navigates challenges and seizes opportunities, its story reflects the broader evolution of soccer in North America.
What are your thoughts on Dallas FC’s role in the 2026 World Cup and its European partnerships? Share your comments below or join the conversation on social media.