The World Cup in Atlanta: Unlocking Economic Opportunity in 2026 and Beyond

Topic Overview 

The FIFA World Cup, the world's premier international soccer competition, returns in 2026 with the opening match on Thursday, June 11 and the final to be played on Sunday, July 19. Co-hosted across three countries – Canada, USA, and Mexico – the tournament will feature 48 teams for the first time since its founding in 1930.

Hosting eight FIFA World Cup matches in 2026 including a semifinal places the city on the global stage in a way not seen since the 1996 Olympics. While Atlanta has consistently hosted major sporting events, the scale, visibility, and economic impact of the World Cup are unprecedented.  

Unlike the Olympics, which concentrated all events in one metro region, the 2026 World Cup is spread across 16 cities in three countries. Yet Atlanta stands out by hosting one of the highest numbers of matches, second only to Dallas. This distinction reflects the city's world-class infrastructure, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium, its international airport — the busiest in the world — and its proven track record in hosting global events like the Super Bowl and the College Football Playoff. 

Economically, the World Cup is projected to generate over $500 million in impact for Georgia, with more than 520,000 spectators expected to visit. This influx will benefit local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and cultural institutions, while also accelerating urban development projects like Centennial Yards and expanding hospitality capacity downtown.  

Culturally, the event offers Atlanta a chance to redefine its global image. The city has evolved significantly since the 1996 Olympics, with vibrant neighborhoods, improved transit, and a thriving soccer culture led by Atlanta United FC. Hosting the World Cup allows Atlanta to showcase its diversity, innovation, and hospitality to a worldwide audience.  

In short, the 2026 World Cup is not just another event it’s a transformative moment for Atlanta to demonstrate its growth, global relevance, and readiness to lead on the international stage. 

About the Event 

Atlanta’s World Cup moment is here. Can the city meet the challenge? Join the World Affairs Council of Atlanta for a candid and engaging conversation with Katie Kirkpatrick, President & CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber, as she shares an insider’s perspective on the opportunities for metro Atlanta to optimize a surge in global attention, tourism, and investment. 

Attendees will leave with: 

• Insights into how the World Cup will generate jobs, boost tourism, and drive revenue across metro Atlanta.  

• An overview of key upgrades in transportation, hospitality, and urban development tied to the event.  

• How Atlanta can leverage the World Cup to elevate its international profile and attract future investment.  

• Understanding efforts to ensure benefits reach small businesses, local communities, and diverse stakeholders. 

  
  

The morning will begin at 8:00 a.m. with a registration and networking reception featuring a buffet breakfast, along with coffee and tea. At 8:30 a.m., guests will be invited to be seated while the program opens with welcome remarks from executives and sponsors. At 8:45 a.m., the fireside chat begins. Following the conversation at 9:10, guests will have the opportunity to participate in an audience Q&A. Closing remarks will wrap up the morning at 9:50, after which attendees are invited to stay for optional networking, continuing the morning’s exchange of ideas and connections in a relaxed setting. 

Reserve Your Table Today!