The Arlington Museum of Art in North Texas is hosting "Soccer: The Passion for the World Cup," an exhibition tracing over a century of soccer history through artifacts, memorabilia, and immersive installations. Developed for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and expanded for 2026, the show features items from Italian collections including the Museo del Calcio Internazionale in Rome, and Arlington is the only North American stop for the international exhibition during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This exhibition matters because it brings global soccer heritage to North Texas just as the region prepares to host nine FIFA World Cup matches, including games at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. By offering a cultural and historical context for the tournament, the museum aims to engage both dedicated fans and general visitors, highlighting how the sport unites billions worldwide and positioning the museum as a key cultural destination during the World Cup.