FIFA World Cup 2026 To Bring 8 Matches, Semifinal To Atlanta

ATLANTA — Georgia's capital has been tapped to host eight matches, including a semifinal, for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Atlanta United FC announced Sunday.

The Mercedes-Benz Stadium will set the scene for soccer's major event starting June 15, when Atlanta will host five group stage matches before becoming the setting for Match 14 and Match 72. The semifinal will take place July 15 at Mercedes-Benz.

The stadium is not only home to the Atlanta United, but also houses the Falcons.

“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 and Falcons owner, in a news release.

“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.”

According to stadium officials, 48 teams total will participate in 104 tournament-style matches across 16 cities countrywide.

The inaugural match will be held June 11 in Mexico City with the closing match scheduled for July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey, according to stadium officials and Atlanta United.

The economic impact is slated to sit at $415 million for Atlanta while the World Cup's total economic contribution is forecast at $5 billion, stadium officials said.

“With world-class venues, accommodations and our unmatched Southern hospitality, Georgia is ready to welcome the world to our capital city for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” Gov. Brian Kemp said in the release. “With a strong record of hosting major sporting events, the people of our state are prepared and capable to meet the needs of this once-in-a-lifetime event and leave visitors with a reason to keep Georgia on their minds.”

A full schedule of matches to occur at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is as follows:

Group Stage

• Match 14 - Monday, June 15
• Match 25 - Thursday, June 18
• Match 38 - Sunday, June 21
• Match 50 - Wednesday, June 24
• Match 72 - Saturday, June 27

Round of 32

• Match 80 - Wednesday, July 1

Round of 16

• Match 95 - Tuesday, July 7

Semifinals

• Match 102 - Wednesday, July 15