A closer look
According to a Dec. 5 news release, the Houston-centric art activation initially launched in 2019 when the city was bidding to be a host city, but was brought back with the hopes of creating excitement and leaving a legacy when the FIFA World Cup leaves Houston.
The campaign invites local businesses and individuals to collaborate with local artists and design a 3-foot fiberglass soccer ball. The balls can be displayed wherever the participant chooses.
“The FIFA World Cup 2026 is generating a lot of excitement in Houston, and the 'Art of Soccer' is a creative way for us to engage with local businesses around it,” Chris Canetti, President of the FIFA World Cup 26 Houston Host Committee, said. “We look forward to seeing these decorative soccer balls on display across the region, illustrating the enthusiasm for the event while raising funds for important legacy programs.”
All funding raised through the campaign will go directly towards the FIFA World Cup 26 Houston Host Committee’s various legacy initiatives, such as minimizing environmental impact with sustainability programming, protecting human rights and "Grow the Game," an initiative providing underserved communities access to soccer.
Those interested in participating can fill out the order form.
