Tag: Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Announced September 28, Atlanta's National Women's Soccer League team will be called Atlanta City Football Club. The Arthur M. Blank Sports and Entertainment organization announced the name along with the team's new colors and crest.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Before the World Cup crowds arrive, these downtown Atlanta restaurants already had loyal local followings. Historic institutions like Paschal’s, beloved sports bars like Restaurant Ten, and breakfast spots like Atlanta Breakfast Club, these longtime favorites offer some of the city’s best meals within walking distance of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The World Cup action in Atlanta won’t stop at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. From the FIFA Fan Festival at Centennial Olympic Park to new entertainment destinations like Cosm and downtown rooftop lounges, the city is transforming into a monthlong celebration of soccer, food, music, and global culture.