Inside Houston Stadium, all ready for the World Cup
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The natural grass pitch is installed and growing under the grow lights, while the stadium roof remains closed. Photo: Shafaq Patel/Axios
Houston Stadium is ready for the World Cup.
The big picture: The venue, temporarily renamed for the matches, has been transformed with FIFA branding, a new grass pitch and heightened security measures ahead of Houston's first match between Germany and Curaçao on June 14.
- The stadium will host seven matches.
Zoom in: The natural grass playing surface is in place, with grow lights set up to maintain the pitch throughout the tournament.
- Two locker rooms have also been transformed for the tournament. Team-specific signage will be installed accordingly. Germany and Curaçao branding was already up Thursday.
- Throughout the stadium, FIFA signage, tournament branding and World Cup-themed concession stands have replaced much of the venue's usual look. Outside, FIFA branding now covers large portions of the stadium facade.
Zoom out: Ahead of the World Cup, NRG Park underwent a broader facelift, including upgraded speakers, video boards, lighting and signage.
What they're saying: FIFA and Houston host committee officials say the event setup differs significantly from a typical Texans game or concert, with different security measures including additional barriers and an "anti-climb" perimeter around the stadium.
- Officials also recommend arriving early. Stadium gates will open three hours before kickoff. Parking (upwards of $100 depending on the match) must be purchased in advance, but officials are encouraging fans to use METRORail.
Worthy of your time: See the full list of prohibited items and how to apply for flags, banners and instruments if you want to bring those.
