The FIFA World Cup 2026\u2122 Houston Host Committee is giving fans the chance to connect with some of the most recognizable figures in U.S. Soccer history through a series of exclusive meet-and-greet appearances at FIFA Fan Festival\u2122 Houston.<\/p>\n
Throughout the tournament, fans visiting Houston Hall at FIFA Fan Festival\u2122 Houston will have the opportunity to meet former U.S. Men\u2019s National Team stars and FIFA World Cup veterans who helped shape the growth of soccer in the United States.<\/p>\n
\u201cFIFA Fan Festival\u2122 Houston is about celebrating the world\u2019s game and creating meaningful connections between fans and the sport they love,\u201d said Chris Canetti, president of the FIFA World Cup 2026\u2122 Houston Host Committee. \u201cThese legends have inspired generations of players and supporters, and we\u2019re proud to provide opportunities for fans to meet them, hear their stories and celebrate their contributions to soccer.\u201d<\/p>\n
Famous soccer legends that will appear at FIFA Fan Fest (FIFA World Cup 2026\u2122 Houston Host Committee)The legends lineup<\/p>\n
DaMarcus Beasley holds a distinction no other American man can claim he is the only American man to appear in four FIFA World Cup\u2122 tournaments (2002, 2006, 2010, 2014). A National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee, Beasley earned 126 caps and collected multiple domestic and international championships throughout his career.<\/p>\n
Clint Dempsey, widely regarded as one of the greatest American players of all time, scored 57 goals for the U.S. Men\u2019s National Team \u2014 tied for the program\u2019s all-time record. A three-time World Cup participant, Dempsey\u2019s creativity, competitiveness and clutch performances made him a defining figure in modern U.S. Soccer history.<\/p>\n
Cobi Jones is the all-time leader in appearances for the U.S. Men\u2019s National Team with 164 caps, representing the United States at three FIFA World Cup\u2122 tournaments. A National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee, Jones remains one of the sport\u2019s most beloved ambassadors.<\/p>\n
Jozy Altidore ranks among the top scorers in U.S. Men\u2019s National Team history with more than 40 international goals. A veteran of the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups\u2122, Altidore helped lead the United States to multiple CONCACAF titles and became one of the country\u2019s most successful forwards.<\/p>\n
Brian McBride scored 30 goals for the U.S. Men\u2019s National Team and represented the country at the 1998, 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups\u2122. Known for his leadership and physical style, McBride was a fan favorite both internationally and in Major League Soccer.<\/p>\n
Tony Meola earned 100 caps with the U.S. Men\u2019s National Team and represented the United States at three FIFA World Cup\u2122 tournaments (1990, 1994, 2002). A National Soccer Hall of Fame member, Meola played a key role in growing the sport during a transformative era for American soccer.<\/p>\n
Geoff Cameron represented the United States at the 2014 FIFA World Cup\u2122 and earned more than 50 caps for the national team. Known for his versatility and consistency, Cameron built a successful career in both Major League Soccer and the English Premier League.<\/p>\n
Brek Shea, a Texas native, earned more than 30 appearances for the U.S. Men\u2019s National Team and was part of the squad that won the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup. The dynamic winger and defender enjoyed a lengthy professional career in MLS and abroad.<\/p>\n
Famous soccer legends that will appear at FIFA Fan Fest (FIFA World Cup 2026\u2122 Houston Host Committee)When to meet them<\/p>\n
Appearances are scheduled throughout the tournament at FIFA Fan Festival\u2122 Houston. Here\u2019s when each legend will be available:<\/p>\n
Monday, June 15 | 1\u20132:30 p.m. \u2014 Brian McBride<\/p>\n
Friday, June 19 | 6:30\u20138 p.m. \u2014 Geoff Cameron, Brek Shea<\/p>\n
Monday, June 22 | 3:30\u20135 p.m. \u2014 Clint Dempsey<\/p>\n
Friday, June 26 | 1\u20132:30 p.m. \u2014 Jozy Altidore<\/p>\n
Tuesday, June 30 | 1:30\u20133 p.m. \u2014 Cobi Jones<\/p>\n
Sunday, July 5 | 2\u20134 p.m. \u2014 Tony Meola<\/p>\n
More than just meet-and-greets<\/p>\n
The legend appearances are just one part of what FIFA Fan Festival\u2122 Houston has to offer. Located in East Downtown Houston, the event will run throughout the length of the tournament and feature live match broadcasts, interactive activations, entertainment, and food and beverage offerings.<\/p>\n
The FIFA World Cup 2026\u2122 Houston Host Committee \u2014 operating under the Sports Authority Foundation \u2014 is collaborating with FIFA, the City of Houston, Harris County, and community stakeholders to deliver a world-class experience. Houston is set to host seven FIFA World Cup 2026\u2122 matches at Houston Stadium.<\/p>\n
For more information, visit the FIFA World Cup 2026\u2122 Houston Host Committee website.<\/p>\n
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