Capacity, location, fixtures and key information about NRG Stadium ahead of the 2026 World Cup
The state-of-the-art facility in Houston is set to play a major role in the 2026 World Cup, serving as the stage for five group-stage matches and two high-stakes knockout rounds.
Established in 2002, this landmark venue was the first in NFL history to feature a retractable roof and is celebrated for its ability to provide a climate-controlled environment for elite athletes.
In accordance with FIFA regulations regarding commercial branding, the ground will operate under the name “Houston Stadium” instead of NRG Stadium throughout the duration of the tournament.
Where is NRG Stadium located?
The stadium is situated within the NRG Park complex in the southern region of Houston, approximately eight miles from the city’s downtown core.
Located in the area often referred to as Gridiron, the venue sits immediately adjacent to the historic Astrodome. Fans can easily reach the site via the METRORail Red Line, which connects the Stadium Park/Astrodome station to the Houston Museum District and Central Business District.
What is the capacity of NRG Stadium?
NRG Stadium is expected to have a seated capacity of approximately 72,220 for its World Cup fixtures. While the venue can be expanded to accommodate over 80,000 guests for massive entertainment events like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the 72,000-seat configuration ensures optimal sightlines and modern media requirements for international football.
Which teams regularly play at NRG Stadium?
The venue is the permanent home of the Houston Texans of the NFL, who have played there since their inaugural season in 2002.
Beyond professional football, the stadium is a premier hub for major collegiate games, including the Texas Bowl and the Texas Kickoff.
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It has also developed a reputation as a leading football venue, frequently hosting the United States and Mexico national teams, as well as multiple CONCACAF Gold Cup and Copa América matches.
Who is the owner of NRG Stadium?
NRG Stadium is owned by the Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation. The facility was originally constructed for roughly $352 million and is managed by ASM Global, a leader in venue and event strategy.
How many World Cup matches will NRG Stadium host?
A total of seven matches are scheduled for NRG Stadium. This includes five group games featuring major teams such as Germany, Portugal, and the Netherlands. The venue will also host a Round of 32 clash and a Round of 16 knockout match.
NRG Stadium World Cup 2026 fixtures and kick-off times
Group Stage
- Germany vs. Curaçao
June 14 – 12:00 Local / 19:00 CET / 18:00 UK - Portugal vs. Intercontinental Playoff 1 Winner
June 17 – 12:00 Local / 19:00 CET / 18:00 UK - Netherlands vs. UEFA Playoff B Winner
June 20 – 12:00 Local / 19:00 CET / 18:00 UK - Portugal vs. Uzbekistan
June 23 – 12:00 Local / 19:00 CET / 18:00 UK - Cabo Verde vs. Saudi Arabia
June 26 – 19:00 Local / 02:00 CET (June 27) / 01:00 UK (June 27)
Knockout Stage
- Round of 32: Winner Group C vs. Runner-up Group F
June 29 – 12:00 Local / 19:00 CET / 18:00 UK - Round of 16: Winner Match 73 vs. Winner Match 75
July 4 – 12:00 Local / 19:00 CET / 18:00 UK
What are the main features of NRG Stadium?
The defining characteristic of the stadium is its fabric retractable roof, which can open or close in approximately seven minutes to protect spectators from the intense Texas sun.
For the World Cup, the stadium will replace its current artificial surface with a high-performance natural grass pitch equipped with specialised drainage and lighting systems.
Additionally, the venue boasts two of the largest high-definition video boards in the world, positioned behind each goal to ensure every fan has a clear view of the replays.
How does NRG Stadium compare to other 2026 venues?
NRG Stadium stands out for its operational reliability, as the retractable roof guarantees that matches can proceed regardless of weather conditions. It is one of the larger stadiums in the US rotation, comparable in size to the venues in San Francisco and Kansas City.
Its location in a major travel hub and its extensive experience hosting international crowds make it one of the most accessible and battle-tested sites in the 2026 lineup.
