AT&T Stadium: The Architectural Marvel of the Dallas Cowboys

Known affectionately by fans as Jerry World, the Palace in Dallas, or the Cowboys Cathedral, AT&T Stadium stands as one of the most ambitious sports venues in the world. Located in Arlington, Texas, this massive structure serves as the home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys and has become a global landmark for sports, entertainment, and large-scale events.

From its groundbreaking in 2005 to its official opening on May 27, 2009, the stadium was designed to push the boundaries of modern engineering. With a construction cost of $1.3 billion (approximately $1.95 billion in 2025 dollars), it represents a significant investment in the future of professional sports and fan experience.

Key Facts

Primary Tenant: Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
Standard Capacity: 80,000 (expandable to over 100,000 with standing room)
Roof Type: Retractable
Surface: Hellas Matrix Turf with Helix Soft Top artificial turf
Executive Suites: 380
Record Attendance: 131,372 (WrestleMania 38)

Design and Construction

The stadium's design is characterized by its immense scale and high-tech amenities. One of its most striking features is the retractable roof, which allows the venue to adapt to Texas's unpredictable weather while maintaining an open-air feel when desired.

The roof open at the stadium during a game between the Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bears in 2022.

Inside, the stadium is famous for its massive video boards, which provide fans with crystal-clear views of the action from any seat in the house. These screens are among the largest in any sporting venue globally.

The video boards at the stadium in 2022.

Naming History

The venue has undergone a few name changes since its inception. It opened as Cowboys Stadium (2009–2013) before transitioning to AT&T Stadium. Interestingly, for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the venue will be referred to as Dallas Stadium.

A Versatile Hub for Major Events

While primarily an NFL venue, AT&T Stadium is a multi-purpose facility that hosts a diverse array of events, ranging from collegiate championships to global soccer tournaments.

Football and Collegiate Sports

Beyond the Dallas Cowboys, the stadium is a staple for college football. It has hosted the Cotton Bowl Classic since 2010 and the Big 12 Championship Game periodically since 2009. It also served as a venue for the Southwest Classic and the East–West Shrine Bowl.

University of Texas marching band during the Big 12 Championship game

The stadium being set up for Texas vs. North Carolina game

Global Soccer and the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The stadium has a growing history with soccer, having hosted the CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinals in 2013 and the International Champions Cup in 2018. Its most significant soccer milestone will be the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where it is scheduled to host nine matches, including a semifinal between France and Spain.

Inside AT&T Stadium prior to the round of 16 match between Spain and Portugal.

Basketball, Boxing, and Wrestling

The venue's flexibility allows it to host other major sports. It hosted the 2010 NBA All-Star Game and the 2014 NCAA Division I men's basketball Final Four. In the realm of combat sports, it has seen massive crowds for professional wrestling, specifically WrestleMania 38, and high-profile boxing matches, such as the Paul vs. Tyson fight in November 2024.

Armed Forces Color Guard at Super Bowl XLV; then Cowboys Stadium

Entertainment and Concerts

AT&T Stadium is a premier destination for global music tours. It has welcomed artists such as Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, U2, and Metallica. The venue's capacity allows for staggering attendance numbers, such as Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in 2023, which saw 210,607 attendees.

Stadium Specifications and Records

The following table summarizes the stadium's capacity and record-breaking attendance across various disciplines.

Category	Capacity/Record	Event/Date
Standard Capacity	80,000	General
Max Capacity	100,000+	Standing Room
Football Record	105,121	Cowboys vs. Giants (2009)
Basketball Record	108,713	2010 NBA All-Star Game
Wrestling Record	131,372	WrestleMania 38 (2022)
Boxing Record	72,300	Paul vs. Tyson (2024)

Logistics and Infrastructure

Managing a crowd of over 100,000 requires significant infrastructure. The stadium is supported by extensive parking facilities and public transit options to handle the influx of visitors during game days.

Several participants walk at the 2013 DFW MDA Muscle Walk; then known as Cowboys Stadium.

Parking at AT&T Stadium for a Dallas Cowboys game in 2022.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum capacity of AT&T Stadium?

The standard capacity is 80,000, but it can be expanded to over 100,000 people when utilizing standing-room areas.

Will AT&T Stadium be used in the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Yes, the stadium will host nine matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will operate under the name Dallas Stadium for the duration of the tournament.

What is the record attendance for a single event at the stadium?

The record attendance was set during WrestleMania 38 in April 2022, with 131,372 people in attendance.

Does the stadium have a retractable roof?

Yes, AT&T Stadium features a retractable roof that allows the venue to be open or closed depending on the weather and event requirements.

Who are the primary tenants of the stadium?

The primary tenant is the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL, who have played there since the stadium opened in 2009.