The FIFA World Cup is coming to Atlanta in two years, and it promises at least a week of international soccer action in the ATL.
IT’S ATLANTA@FIFAWorldCup has chosen #Atlanta to host EIGHT matches, including one of the semi-final matches in 2026! #WeAre26 #WeAreAtlanta pic.twitter.com/bk71MdXGL8
— Mercedes-Benz Stadium (@MBStadium) February 4, 2024
The competition, which will begin in Los Angeles on June 12, 2026, comes to Mercedes Benz Stadium on June 15, 2026, and will continue on the 18th, 21st, 24th and 27th of that month. All of these will be group-stage matches.
Then, there will be a Round of 32 (to be played July 1st, 2026) and a Round of 16 (July 7th) to be held in Atlanta, with more rounds that could be announced in the future.
In addition to those matches, Atlanta will be the host city for a semifinal match, which is scheduled for July 15th, 2026.
This totals eight FIFA World Cup matches (at least) that will be held in Atlanta.
In addition to Atlanta and L.A., Miami, Toronto, Boston, Philadelphia, New York, and New Jersey will also host FIFA events in 2026.
The FIFA World Cup promises to be a huge draw in Atlanta and will further bolster the city’s growing image as the place for big sporting events. The event will have 48 teams participating in 104 matches across 16 cities in North America, including Atlanta. It is estimated by the Boston Consulting Group that $415 million could be placed in Atlanta’s coffers thanks to the event.
“This is a momentous occasion and a true celebration of the beautiful game of soccer in our city,” said AMBSE Chairman Arthur M. Blank, in a statement. “The FIFA World Cup 2026 brings people together in a way that transcends borders and makes this tournament an unforgettable journey for fans globally. We look forward to welcoming the world to Atlanta and Mercedes-Benz Stadium for eight matches, including a semifinal, in 2026.”
AMBSE owns Mercedes Benz Stadium, where the Atlanta events are scheduled to be located.
“Thirty years after the Centennial Olympic Games, Atlanta will once again host a global audience and some of the world’s greatest athletes for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, in a statement. “Much like 1996, we will work with all our partners to ensure the FIFA World Cup 2026 has a positive, equitable impact on our communities for generations.”
“With world-class venues, accommodations, and our unmatched Southern hospitality, Georgia is ready to welcome the world to our capital city for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” adds Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, in a statement.
A tournament draw will take place in December 2025 to determine which teams will be coming to Atlanta to compete in 2026.
Note: story updated to include quotes from Arthur Blank, Andre Dickens, Brian Kemp, and additional information.
