Dallas is more than just a bustling metropolis; it’s a city with a rich and diverse sports culture that appeals to fans of all kinds. From world-renowned professional teams to collegiate competitions and exciting youth programs, Dallas offers an impressive lineup of athletic experiences. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the different dimensions of Dallas’s sports scene, including professional teams, major events, and iconic venues.
Dallas’s Professional Sports Teams: Champions Across Leagues
Dallas hosts a number of celebrated professional sports teams across various leagues, drawing fans from around the country. Each team represents a unique piece of the city’s sports heritage, showcasing a passion for competition that defines Dallas’s identity.
Football Football has a special place in the heart of Dallas, with the Dallas Cowboys as the city’s beloved NFL team. Known as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys have won five Super Bowl titles and have built a legacy as one of the most recognized franchises in the league. In addition to the Cowboys, Dallas also has an XFL team, the Dallas Renegades, which brings more excitement to the local football scene and holds home games at Globe Life Park.
Baseball The Texas Rangers, Dallas’s Major League Baseball team, have provided thrilling moments for fans, most recently with their first-ever World Series win in 2023. Based in nearby Arlington, the Rangers attract baseball fans from across the region who flock to see them play at the impressive Globe Life Field, a state-of-the-art ballpark that hosts a range of events.
Basketball Basketball fans in Dallas enjoy following the Dallas Mavericks, an NBA team that made headlines by winning the championship in 2011, led by the iconic Dirk Nowitzki. The Mavericks share the spotlight with the Dallas Wings, a WNBA team that moved to the area in 2016. With the Wings representing women’s basketball, Dallas has a solid representation in professional basketball for all audiences to enjoy.
Hockey In hockey, the Dallas Stars represent the city in the NHL and have a loyal fanbase. The Stars secured a Stanley Cup victory in the 1998-1999 season, cementing their status as a strong force in professional hockey. Their games at the American Airlines Center are packed with action and energy, drawing fans who revel in the fast-paced nature of the sport.
Soccer For soccer enthusiasts, FC Dallas is a key player in Major League Soccer. Based in Frisco, FC Dallas has won the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup twice, once in 1997 and again in 2016. Their presence has helped popularize soccer in Texas, and they continue to foster a growing community of soccer fans in the area.
The World of Collegiate Athletics in Dallas
Dallas’s sports scene isn’t complete without acknowledging its thriving collegiate athletic programs. Several universities in the region compete in NCAA Division I sports, offering high-energy games and building a robust sports culture among students and alumni alike.
Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs Located in University Park, SMU is home to the Mustangs, whose NCAA Division I programs include football, basketball, and more. SMU’s athletics program has a dedicated following and provides students with ample opportunities to enjoy sports on campus.
Texas Christian University (TCU) Horned Frogs Based in Fort Worth, TCU competes in the Big 12 Conference, making it one of the top athletic programs in Texas. The Horned Frogs have made their mark in football and other sports, with competitive teams and a passionate fan base that supports them.
University of North Texas (UNT) Mean Green Situated in Denton, UNT’s athletic program, the Mean Green, is part of Conference USA. Known for strong showings in football and other sports, UNT’s teams bring spirited competition to the Dallas area, making them a beloved part of the local sports community.
Major Sporting Events That Define Dallas’s Sports Calendar
Dallas’s calendar is filled with highly anticipated sporting events, some of which attract national attention and visitors from all over.
Red River Showdown The annual Red River Showdown is a college football rivalry game between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma. Held at the historic Cotton Bowl Stadium during the State Fair of Texas, this game is a major highlight of the football season, drawing crowds who gather to witness this iconic match-up.
Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic Another college football event with a long history, the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic has been a part of Dallas’s sports landscape since 1937. Traditionally played at AT&T Stadium, this event brings together top teams from across the nation, making it a must-see for college football fans.
FIFA World Cup 2026 In an exciting development for soccer fans, Dallas is set to host nine matches, including a semi-final, during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With AT&T Stadium chosen as a venue, this event will place Dallas on the global sports stage, attracting international visitors and giving local fans a chance to experience World Cup action firsthand.
Iconic Sports Venues in Dallas
Dallas boasts several world-class venues that enhance the fan experience and support its vibrant sports culture. These stadiums and arenas not only serve as the home turf for Dallas’s teams but also host a range of events that bring sports lovers together.
AT&T Stadium Home to the Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium is an architectural marvel and a venue for major events beyond football. Located in Arlington, this stadium has hosted Super Bowls, college bowl games, concerts, and will be a key venue for the 2026 World Cup. Its cutting-edge design and seating capacity make it one of the premier sports venues in the country.
American Airlines Center American Airlines Center is a hub for both the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks and the NHL’s Dallas Stars. Located in Victory Park, the arena’s energetic atmosphere makes it a go-to spot for basketball and hockey fans alike. With frequent concerts and events, it’s a versatile venue that sees a constant stream of visitors year-round.
Globe Life Field The new Globe Life Field in Arlington is home to the Texas Rangers. With a retractable roof, it provides comfortable game-day experiences regardless of the weather. Globe Life Field also hosts other events, making it a popular spot for sports fans and event-goers.
Toyota Stadium Located in Frisco, Toyota Stadium is the heart of soccer in Dallas and the home field for FC Dallas. The stadium not only hosts MLS games but also other soccer events, contributing to the growing soccer culture in the area.
Youth and Community Sports Programs in Dallas
Dallas offers plenty of opportunities for young athletes to get involved in sports through various community initiatives and programs.
Mayor’s Youth Sports Ticket Program The Mayor’s Youth Sports Ticket Program allows local youth to attend professional, collegiate, and amateur sporting events at no cost. This initiative aims to make sports accessible to all young people, encouraging them to become engaged with the city’s sports culture.
Dallas Sports Commission With over 90 sports venues across the city, the Dallas Sports Commission works to make Dallas an attractive destination for hosting sporting events of all kinds, from youth leagues to national tournaments. The Commission’s efforts have solidified Dallas’s reputation as a city passionate about sports and athletic excellence.
Dallas: A City of Champions and Sports Enthusiasts
Dallas’s sports scene is a dynamic part of the city’s identity, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds. From professional teams that compete on the national stage to collegiate and youth programs that build local pride, Dallas offers a wealth of sports opportunities for fans and athletes alike. Whether you’re cheering on the Cowboys at AT&T Stadium or attending a youth sports event, Dallas is a city that lives and breathes sports. This thriving culture continues to attract new fans and inspire future athletes, solidifying Dallas’s status as a true sports city.
