World Affairs Council of Atlanta Launches Speaker Events Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026
- World Affairs Council of Atlanta
- Feb 5
- 4 min read
Atlanta, GA — February 5, 2026 — The World Affairs Council of Atlanta today announced the launch of a multi‑event exploration of the global, economic, cultural, and leadership implications of Atlanta’s role as a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Presented by Bank of America, the programs will convene leaders from business, sport, and civic life to examine how the world’s largest sporting event will shape the region’s future. Additional programs will be announced throughout 2026.
“As the Official Bank Sponsor for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Bank of America is honored to partner with World Affairs Council of Atlanta for its speakers’ series," said Al McRae, president, Bank of America Atlanta. "We believe in the power of sport to bring people together and create lasting change, not just globally, but right here in Atlanta.
Programming opened on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, with The World Cup in Atlanta: Unlocking Economic Opportunity in 2026 and Beyond, featuring Katie Kirkpatrick, President & CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber, in conversation with Rickey Bevington, President of the World Affairs Council of Atlanta. The discussion will explore how Atlanta can maximize global attention, tourism, and investment; leverage major upgrades in transportation, hospitality, and urban development; and ensure that economic benefits reach local communities and small businesses.
“Atlanta’s World Cup moment is here,” said Bevington. “These events bring together the leaders shaping our region’s future to explore how the world’s biggest sporting event can strengthen our economy, elevate our global standing, and inspire the next generation.”
As Atlanta prepares to host eight FIFA World Cup matches, including a semifinal, the city is poised for a transformative moment not seen since the 1996 Olympics. Teams already announced to play in Atlanta include Spain, Cabo Verde, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Haiti, and Uzbekistan, underscoring the global reach of the tournament. The World Cup is projected to generate more than $500 million in economic impact for Georgia and attract over 520,000 visitors, offering Atlanta a unique opportunity to elevate its global profile. This year’s expanded FIFA World Cup—the first featuring 48 national teams competing across 16 host cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada—will be the largest sporting event in history, marking a true North American, continent‑wide celebration of the global game.
The Council’s 11th annual International Women’s Day celebration takes place on Friday, March 6, 2026 featuring two‑time FIFA World Cup Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist Kelley O’Hara. Leadership Lessons from a Life in Soccer will showcase the Georgia native and one of the most accomplished athletes in women’s soccer. O’Hara will share insights from her career in elite competition, media, and advocacy, highlighting the global significance of women’s sports and the power of representation on and off the field.
Additional programs will be announced throughout 2026.
Event Details
Event 1: The World Cup in Atlanta: Unlocking Economic Opportunity in 2026 and Beyond
Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Time: 8:00–10:00 a.m.
Location: The Loft, Woodruff Arts Center
Distinguished Speaker: Katie Kirkpatrick, President & CEO, Metro Atlanta Chamber Moderator: Rickey Bevington, President, World Affairs Council of Atlanta
Event 2: International Women’s Day: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Soccer
Date: Friday, March 6, 2026
Time: 7:30–10:30 a.m.
Location: Mercedes‑Benz Club, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
Registration: Click here
Distinguished Speaker: Kelley O’Hara, Two-Time World Cup Champion (2015, 2019); Olympic Gold Medalist (2012); Two-Time NWSL Champion (2021, 2023); Host, Sports Are Fun!, Just Women’s Sports; Soccer Commentator, CBS
Moderator: Rickey Bevington, President, World Affairs Council of Atlanta
More events will be announced in advance of FIFA World Cup 2026.
About the World Affairs Council of Atlanta
The World Affairs Council of Atlanta is a non-partisan, non-profit organization established in 2010 by Atlanta’s foremost corporate and civic leaders. Our mission is to equip Atlantans with the world-class knowledge, global relationships, and international perspective needed to lead in today’s interconnected world. Through dozens of high-caliber events each year, we convene business executives, diplomats, students, and engaged citizens to explore the most pressing global issues of our time. Learn more: www.wacatlanta.org
Media Contact:
Jackie Davis
Director, World Affairs Council of Atlanta
NEWSLETTER BLURB
Celebrate International Women’s Day with Soccer Icon Kelley O’Hara
Presented by Bank of America
Join the World Affairs Council of Atlanta on Friday, March 6, 2026, for our 11th annual International Women’s Day celebration, featuring one of the most accomplished athletes in women’s soccer: Kelley O’Hara.
In Leadership Lessons from a Life in Soccer, O’Hara will share insights from her extraordinary career as a World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist, media host, and advocate for women in sport. Her story offers a powerful look at leadership, resilience, and the impact of representation on and off the field.
Join us for an inspiring morning that brings together leaders, community members, and champions of women’s empowerment to celebrate the impact of women shaping our world.
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