Overview
- The Houston host committee confirmed DR Congo will base in the city and train at the former SaberCats stadium, which FIFA will designate the Houston Training Centre.
- Planned work at the training site includes a new grass surface, drainage improvements, a temporary media center, and removal of non‑FIFA signage.
- NRG Stadium transfers to host control on May 1 for natural‑grass installation to meet FIFA rules, with FIFA officials calling Houston one of the most well‑prepared host cities.
- The team is expected to arrive in early June, and its first Houston game is Portugal vs. DR Congo on June 17, with the training site closed to the public as fan opportunities are explored.
- Security funding faces uncertainty after the state threatened to withdraw about $110 million in public safety grants, a risk the mayor says could affect World Cup readiness.