World Cup 2026

From the excitement of the eight matches it hosted—including both finalists playing in “Atlanta Stadium” during their runs to the title game—to its best-in-class attendance for the fan festivals (prompting city officials to add an extra day to the schedule), to the ease of public transportation, to the air conditioning (of all things), Atlanta again established itself as a city that knows how to host gigantic and important events.

After the FIFA World Cup 2026™ excitement fades in Atlanta, a stellar slate of new sports events will come into focus. Here are some highlights.

Over the last several decades, Atlanta has built its reputation as the epicenter of soccer, hosting international matches and investing millions into the game’s growth. With FIFA World Cup 2026™ coming to town, Atlanta’s status as a soccer city is firmly solidified. Here, we break down the critical developments that fueled its rise.

World Cup matchday magic isn’t confined to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Across the city, a network of official partner pubs turns every game—including FIFA World Cup™ matches—into full-blown parties. These spots have big screens, buzzing crowds, and enough pints to fuel the chants and make strangers feel like family.

It's the $1 billion dollar question: What prompted FIFA to choose Atlanta as one of the host cities for this summer’s FIFA World Cup 2026™? The answer is the same one that lures companies from all over the world to Georgia: the state’s robust economy, strong infrastructure, and cooperative culture.

Arthur Blank believed that Atlanta could become a world soccer capital, but not everyone was convinced. Fast-forward and Blank’s pro soccer team, Atlanta United, regularly sets MLS attendance records, and Atlanta will host eight FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches, including a semifinal.

Once FIFA World Cup 2026™ fans have seen Atlanta, an easy road trip beyond the capital will reveal a whole different side of Georgia. From the folklore and forests of its mountains to the rich heritage of its coastal cities and islands, you’ll find spectacular scenery and surprises within just a few hours’ drive.

Hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026™ is the latest chapter in a 30-year transformation that began with the 1996 Olympic Games, which accelerated the city's growth, strengthened public-private partnerships, elevated its cultural and culinary profile, and established Atlanta as one of the world's leading destinations for major sporting events.

FIFA World Cup 2026™ Atlanta has always been about more than a monthlong summer event. Its host committee has teamed up with Soccer in the Streets and Boys & Girls Clubs of Georgia to create a legacy that lasts well after the competition concludes by creating a mini-pitch at the Hamilton E. Holmes MARTA station west of Downtown.

Downtown Atlanta’s restaurant scene is booming just in time for the World Cup. Barbecue joints, Irish pubs, upscale Thai cuisine—these new spots are all within a 20-minute walk of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, perfect for a prematch meal or postgame drink.