The stadium set to host England’s first World Cup match has been nicknamed “The Palace in Dallas” due to its impressive features. The venue, usually home to the NFL team the Dallas Cowboys, boasts grandeur that will awe Three Lions supporters arriving in north Texas. Costing over £1 billion to construct, the stadium is equipped with one of the world’s largest video screens, spanning from one penalty box to the other.
With an 80,000-seat capacity expected for England’s initial group match, the stadium’s sheer size is highlighted by the fact that the Statue of Liberty could stand on the halfway line without touching the retractable roof. Renowned for its technological advancements, the stadium’s retractable roof can open or close in just 12 minutes, creating the world’s “largest air-conditioned room.”
Despite its impressive features, the stadium’s construction was not without controversy, as some residents were compelled to sell their homes. The AT&T stadium, as it is commonly known, has been temporarily rebranded as the Dallas stadium for the tournament’s duration. Fans entering the venue are subject to strict security measures regarding firearms, reflecting the prevalent issue of gun control in Texas.
While the stadium offers a vast array of bars and restaurants, amenities come at a premium cost. Beverages like beer and water are priced significantly higher than average, with fans allowed to bring in sealed bottles of water as per Fifa regulations. Additionally, the stadium’s public spaces host an ‘Art Collection’ featuring museum-quality pieces for visitors to enjoy.
With the potential for England to return to the stadium for a semi-final match, the venue’s legacy as a top-tier sports facility is solidified. The prospect of witnessing high-stakes football matches in this state-of-the-art arena adds to the excitement surrounding the World Cup tournament.