Atlanta Tourism Chief Discusses World Cup and Partnership with Michelin

Atlanta is gearing up to potentially become the home base for FIFA World Cup fans in 2026. Discover Atlanta CEO and President William Pate believes that the city could serve as a central hub for fans traveling across North America to support their favorite teams.

With Atlanta set to host eight matches, including three knockout games, preparations are already underway. The city boasts nearly 15,000 hotel rooms within walking distance of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, making it an ideal location for fans to stay and easily access the games.

One of the key advantages Atlanta offers is its Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which serves as a major transportation hub with nonstop flights to all World Cup cities, including those in Canada and Mexico. This accessibility makes it convenient for fans to base themselves in Atlanta and travel to different cities as their teams progress in the tournament.

Furthermore, Atlanta’s growing reputation as a soccer hub, hosting events like the Copa America games and becoming the new headquarters for USA Soccer, adds to its appeal as a World Cup home base. The recent opening of the Signia Hilton Hotel, a 1,000-room convention hotel, further enhances the city’s capacity to accommodate large events and conventions.

As Atlanta continues to develop its tourism offerings and attract diverse visitor demographics, Discover Atlanta’s targeted marketing strategies, such as the ATL Unguided experience for Black travelers, aim to provide unique and culturally enriching experiences for all visitors. With a strong convention calendar for 2024 and ongoing development projects in the city, Atlanta is poised to be a top destination for World Cup fans and travelers alike.