When Is the World Cup Coming to Atlanta? Your 2026 Guide

Atlanta is officially one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the tournament is coming to Atlanta in the summer of 2026, with multiple matches scheduled at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Downtown Atlanta.

While exact kickoff times and specific matchups can shift as the event gets closer, the key facts are already set:
Atlanta will host several World Cup games in June and July 2026 as part of the expanded tournament being held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Below is what Atlanta-area residents and visitors need to know right now.

Key World Cup 2026 Facts for Atlanta

Quick snapshot for Atlanta:

This means that if you live in metro Atlanta—or plan to visit—you will see World Cup activity centered around Downtown and the Westside during the summer of 2026.

Where in Atlanta Will World Cup Games Be Played?

All official World Cup matches in Atlanta are scheduled to be held at:

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
1 AMB Dr NW
Atlanta, GA 30313

This is the home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, and it is one of the largest and most modern stadiums in the country. For the World Cup, expect:

• Soccer‑specific field configuration (no American football markings)
• Large fan capacity, meaning big crowds on match days
• Enhanced security, traffic control, and event‑day procedures compared with regular-season games

If you live or work near Downtown, Castleberry Hill, Vine City, or the Georgia World Congress Center area, you will likely notice road closures, detours, and larger pedestrian flows on match days.

When Exactly Will Games Happen?

The World Cup 2026 runs in summer 2026, with:

• Group-stage matches starting in June
• Knockout rounds running into July

Atlanta is expected to host multiple matches across this period, but the precise dates and which teams will play here are normally announced closer to the tournament.

What you can safely plan around now:

• ⚽ World Cup activity will impact Atlanta from early June through mid‑July 2026.
• ⚽ Peak intensity (most visitors, events, and traffic) will cluster around days when matches are scheduled at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium.
• ⚽ Downtown hotels, short‑term rentals, and transit will be busier than normal during that stretch.

To get the most current match schedule as 2026 approaches, look to:

• Official announcements from FIFA
• Updates from the City of Atlanta and Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
• Local coverage from major Atlanta news outlets

How Will the World Cup Affect Atlanta Residents?

If you live in Atlanta, especially in-town neighborhoods, the World Cup will feel similar to a major multi-week festival combined with multiple high‑profile sporting events.

Traffic and Transportation

Expect:

• Heavy traffic on and around:
  • Northside Dr NW
  • Ivan Allen Jr Blvd
  • Marietta St NW
  • Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW
• Increased congestion on:
  • I‑75/85 through Downtown
  • I‑20 near the Downtown Connector
• Limited parking near the stadium and the Georgia World Congress Center campus

Many locals may find it easier to use MARTA on match days.

Key MARTA points for stadium access:

• GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line) – Closest station to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
• Vine City Station (Blue/Green Line) – Short walk to the stadium from the west
• Five Points Station – Major transfer hub; from here, you can switch to the Blue/Green Line toward GWCC/CNN or Vine City

Tips for Local Commuters

• Build in extra time if you commute through Downtown during event days.
• Consider flexible hours or remote work if your employer allows it, especially on heavy match days.
• Use side-street routes or alternative corridors (such as North Avenue, 10th Street, or Memorial Drive) if you typically cross downtown.

How Will It Impact Visitors Coming to Atlanta?

If you’re traveling to Atlanta for the World Cup, you’ll likely come through:

Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport
6000 N Terminal Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30320

From the airport, for most visitors the simplest route is:

• Take MARTA Red or Gold Line from the Airport Station to Five Points, then
• Transfer to Blue or Green Line to GWCC/CNN Center or Vine City

This avoids driving and downtown parking, which will be crowded and potentially expensive on match days.

Where Visitors Typically Stay

World Cup visitors will likely cluster in:

• Downtown Atlanta – Closest to the stadium and Centennial Olympic Park
• Midtown – Access to MARTA, restaurants, nightlife, and cultural sites
• Buckhead – Hotels with easy MARTA or highway access
• Airport area – For travelers prioritizing convenience to flights

Booking early is wise, especially if you want to stay within walking distance or a short train ride of the stadium.

World Cup–Related Events and Fan Zones

During major international tournaments, host cities commonly set up:

• Official fan zones or viewing areas with big screens
• Community events, youth soccer clinics, and cultural festivals
• Partnership events at parks, plazas, and downtown spaces

In Atlanta, these types of activities are most likely to be centered around:

• The Centennial Olympic Park area
• The Georgia World Congress Center campus
• Nearby Downtown public spaces and plazas

As event planning becomes more detailed, watch for announcements from:

• City of Atlanta government
• Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

These will provide specifics on where to watch games, what’s free to attend, and any security or bag policies for fan zones.

How to Stay Updated in Atlanta

Because schedules, security procedures, and transportation plans are refined closer to the event, staying informed is important.

Helpful Local Points of Contact

• City of Atlanta – Mayor’s Office / Special Events
  City Hall, 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Atlanta Police Department (non‑emergency) – 404‑658‑6666
  (For road closures, public safety information, and event impacts)
• MARTA Customer Information Center – 404‑848‑5000
  (For transit schedules, station access, and service changes)
• Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Customer Service) – 1‑800‑897‑1910

These organizations typically share transportation plans, security guidelines, and visitor tips as large events approach.

Planning Ahead: Practical Steps for Atlantans

Whether you’re a fan or just trying to navigate the city smoothly, it helps to prepare:

If You Want to Attend Matches

• Follow official ticket channels only; avoid resellers that look suspicious.
• Plan lodging early if you live outside the core metro area or want to stay near the stadium.
• Familiarize yourself with Mercedes‑Benz Stadium entry rules (bags, IDs, timing) before match day.

If You’re Not Attending But Live/Work Nearby

• Note expected match days once the detailed schedule is released.
• Adjust commutes, deliveries, and appointments to avoid peak arrival and departure times.
• Consider planning errands or activities in areas away from Downtown on heavy event days.

What This Means for Soccer in Atlanta

For locals, the World Cup is more than just a few games. It usually brings:

• Increased interest in local soccer, including Atlanta United FC and youth leagues
• More pickup games and watch parties across neighborhoods
• Added international visibility for Atlanta as a sports and tourism destination

If you or your family are interested in getting into soccer ahead of 2026, Atlanta already has:

• Local clubs and rec leagues around the metro area
• Public fields and parks managed by the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation
• A strong Atlanta United supporter culture centered at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

In summary: The World Cup is coming to Atlanta in the summer of 2026, with multiple matches at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in June and July 2026. Expect major activity in and around Downtown, expanded transit use, and a citywide celebration of soccer that residents and visitors alike will feel for several weeks.