World Cup Spirit Unites Fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Rickey Bevington poses inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium with three England supporters dressed in lion costumes. Three lions have been used as England’s football emblem since the formation of The Football Association in 1863.

Published: July 6, 2026

President Rickey Bevington represented the Council last week as a guest of the British Consulate in Atlanta during the FIFA World Cup match between England and the Democratic Republic of Congo at Atlanta (Mercedes-Benz) Stadium. The event highlighted elite international competition and the World Cup’s unique ability to bring together people from every corner of the globe.

Although the stadium was filled with passionate supporters of both England and DR Congo, the crowd reflected the true diversity of the World Cup. Fans carried flags and wore jerseys representing dozens of countries, creating a colorful display of international pride and friendship. The atmosphere served as a reminder that the World Cup is more than a sporting event. It is a global celebration of culture, community, and the game known around the world as “the beautiful game,” a phrase popularized by Brazilian football legend Pelé.

The match also highlighted the strong ties between Georgia and the United Kingdom. According to the Migration Policy Institute, approximately 25,000 people born in the United Kingdom called Georgia home in 2024. 

England carries a proud footballing history. The country is one of only eight nations to have won the FIFA World Cup, capturing the trophy in 1966 while hosting the tournament. That legacy was on full display throughout the evening as England supporters filled the stadium with songs, chants, and traditions that have become synonymous with English football culture.

Moments after the final whistle confirmed England’s 2–1 victory, jubilant supporters launched into a passionate rendition of “Three Lions (Football’s Coming Home),” the iconic 1996 anthem that has become an unofficial soundtrack for England’s major tournament campaigns. The phrase “It’s coming home” echoed throughout Atlanta (Mercedes-Benz) Stadium as fans celebrated the hard-fought win.

The festivities continued on the pitch as England’s players gathered in front of their supporters’ section to thank fans for their encouragement. Together, players and supporters sang along to Oasis’s “Wonderwall” and other beloved songs by English artists, transforming the stadium into a celebration of both football and British culture.

As Atlanta hosts the world during this historic tournament, events like England’s victory over DR Congo underscore the city’s role as a gathering place where people forge international friendships and share global traditions.

Want more on the World Cup in Atlanta? Read our conversation with U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson.