Houston – For the first time in FIFA World Cup™ history, each host city will have its own official poster—and Houston’s design comes straight from the heart of H-Town. Stephanie Leal, a Houston-based artist and digital marketing specialist, was selected from hundreds of local artists to create the official Houston FIFA World Cup 26™ Host City Poster.
Meet the Artist: Stephanie Leal
Born in Monterrey, Mexico, and raised in Houston, Leal has always been passionate about using art to tell stories. A University of Houston graduate with a degree in Fine Arts and Art History, she previously worked as the lead designer for the Houston Dynamo and Dash, blending motion graphics, photography, and illustration to bring creative ideas to life. Now, her work will be front and center on the world stage.
The Winning Design: A Tribute to Houston
Leal’s poster design is a vibrant fusion of Houston’s culture, history, and soccer spirit. Each element carries a special meaning:
- Cowboy Hat – A nod to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, one of the city’s most iconic traditions.
- The “H” Hand Signal – A symbol of pride and unity, capturing the heartbeat of Houston.
- Houston Skyline – Representing the city’s resilience, innovation, and ambition.
- Orion the Astronaut – A tribute to Houston’s diversity, reminding us that whether you dream of playing soccer or going to space, anything is possible.
- Captain’s Armband – Featuring Houston’s flag, celebrating the city’s heritage and global influence.
- Texas Ball – Merging FIFA’s signature pattern with Houston at the center, reinforcing that Houston isn’t just a host city—it’s a soccer city.
Houston Prepares for FIFA World Cup 2026™
Houston will host eight FIFA World Cup™ matches, with game days set for June 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, and 29, plus July 4th, 2026—a historic celebration in the making.
Want to feel the energy of the World Cup before the matches even begin? Check out the official “Sound of Houston” playlist on Spotify, featuring the Houston Theme x FIFA World Cup 26™ track.
As soccer’s biggest stage comes to Houston, Stephanie Leal’s artwork will stand as a powerful symbol of the city’s culture, creativity, and passion for the game.