The new center inside POST Houston will host interviews and training for thousands of volunteers hoping to be part of the world’s biggest sporting event.
HOUSTON — Houston is one step closer to welcoming the world for FIFA World Cup 26™.
On Monday morning, the Houston Host Committee and FIFA officially opened the city’s brand-new World Cup Volunteer Center inside POST Houston — a 15,000-square-foot hub that will serve as the training and interview site for thousands of volunteers preparing to take part in the world’s biggest sporting event.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official debut of the center, which organizers say is unlike anything Houston has ever seen.
“We knew we’d see a strong response,” said John Coppins, Vice President of Operations for the Houston Host Committee. “But I’ll be honest — the numbers surprised me.”
According to the Host Committee, more than 12,000 people from around the world have already applied to volunteer for the World Cup in Houston. Only about 5,000 volunteer spots will ultimately be filled.
That selection process begins Tuesday morning, when the first round of interviews kicks off inside the new space.
“Volunteers from all over the world will come try out to make the team,” said Jaclyn Escareno, FIFA26 Host City Volunteer Manager for Houston. “We tried to make it as interactive as possible.”
Inside the center, candidates will experience a mix of interactive exhibits — from World Cup memorabilia and highlight clips to games and selfie stations — all designed to energize and inspire them before their one-on-one interviews.
“We’re trying to find out what makes each volunteer tick,” Escareno said. “There’s a role for everyone — it’s all about finding the best fit for their personality.”
Each hopeful volunteer will get the chance to tell their story during an individual interview with another volunteer before heading out to hopefully get the call to return next summer.
Organizers expect it will take about seven weeks to complete all the interviews. Those selected to join Houston’s official volunteer team will be notified in January.
“We couldn’t do it without them,” Coppins said. “They’re the heartbeat of this World Cup.”
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