ATLANTA — Soccer fans in Atlanta can now start making their big plans for 2026 after FIFA, the international soccer governing body, announced which World Cup matches will be played in The A.
The City of Atlanta and state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium were selected as a host city for the 2026 World Cup back in June 2022 as the city has become known for its soccer prowess thanks to Atlanta United and the recent announcement that U.S. Soccer headquarters is moving to metro Atlanta.
After the full World Cup schedule was released at 3 p.m. Sunday, Atlanta excitingly learned that they will host five group stage matches. The United States Men's National Team will not play a group stage match in Atlanta, however, as those matches will take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.
Atlanta also received a highly-anticipated Round of 32, Round of 16 and semifinal knockout matches.
Here are the dates of the group stage and knockout games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium:
- June 15 (Group stage)
- June 18 (Group stage)
- June 21 (Group stage)
- June 24 (Group stage)
- June 27 (Group stage)
- July 1 (Round of 32)
- July 7 (Round of 16)
- July 15 (Semifinal)
Atlanta has the second most World Cup matches in North America with eight, only trailing Dallas.
It is estimated that the World Cup will generate $415 million in revenue for the City of Atlanta, according to data gathered by AMB Sports and Entertainment.
The group stage drawing for the 2026 World Cup will take place in December 2025.
What we knew for sure prior to the schedule release show is that The Benz was going to host at least two World Cup matches in group stage. The city was pleased to learn they will host five.
The World Cup Final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
Here is the full World Cup schedule:
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp is looking forward to welcoming the world-class event to Atlanta.
“This is a momentous occasion and a true celebration of the beautiful game of soccer in our city,” said Arthur M. Blank, chairman of Blank Family of Businesses. “The FIFA World Cup 2026™ brings people together in a way that transcends borders and makes this tournament an unforgettable journey for fans globally. We look forward to welcoming the world to Atlanta and Mercedes-Benz Stadium for eight matches, including a semifinal, in 2026.”
The Atlanta Sports Council issued a release with reactions from several city and state leaders back when the World Cup logo was released for the city in May.
The Atlanta City Council also issued a statement back in June saying that with three Super Bowls and the Olympics, "Atlanta certainly has experience hosting top-tier sporting events in our city."
"It’s very exciting to add this incredible event to that rich history. Our city has the venues and the fan base for a truly special atmosphere. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our city to the world once again," the Council said back in May.
Canada and Mexico are joint-hosting the tournament and are allotted three host cities each.
The site of the 1996 Olympics, Atlanta, was among those considered for the first U.S.-based World Cup in 1994 but ultimately not chosen to host games.
Last year, FIFA officials toured Atlanta as a potential host site.
"Obviously, you have the magnificent stadium here, and also transport links, sustainability, city infrastructure, accommodations, training sites, fan experiences," Colin Smith, chief tournaments and events officer with FIFA, said at that time.
In September 2021, Smith did say the stadium would have to put in real grass for the World Cup instead of the turf it usually uses.