US Soccer Targets Fayette Co. For New Headquarters, Training Center

FAYETTE COUNTY — The U.S. Soccer Federation has selected Fayette County as the home for its new headquarters and "first-of-its-kind" national training center, creating a $228 million investment for the area, Gov. Brian Kemp announced Thursday.

Kemp said U.S. Soccer aims to break ground at is new site in spring 2024. It is unknown where in Fayette the facility will be located.

The governor first announced on Sept. 15 that the federation's Board of Directors voted to approve metro Atlanta for the headquarters and training center.

“We’re proud to be building a home that will support the future of soccer in America. The NTC will help player development at the highest level and serve as a central destination to support and inspire players across the country as well as a hub of knowledge and resources for all our member organizations," U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone said in a news release.

"Beyond its national importance, the NTC will be an institution firmly rooted in its community. U.S. Soccer will work with local officials and corporate partners on the ground to engage the vibrant communities in Fayette County and the metro-Atlanta area to build new career pathways to sport, connect with fans and grow the soccer community.”

Kemp said 440 U.S. Soccer jobs will be available through the development, which will serve as a training center for the 27 U.S. Soccer women's, men's and youth national teams.

He added the facility will also be used to develop youth players and train coaches and referees.

“After announcing in September that U.S. Soccer was coming to Georgia, it’s exciting to officially welcome them to their new home in Fayette County,” Kemp said in the release. “U.S. Soccer joins a long and proud tradition of sports in the Peach State, including our fast-growing soccer fanbase. This project will solidify Georgia's position at the forefront of this increasingly popular sport, from the success of our own Atlanta United team to the FIFA World Cup 2026 events in a few short years.”

Atlanta will be one of 16 cities to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be played across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Kemp previously said the tournament will include 48 teams and 104 matches under a new expanded format, historically making it the largest FIFA World Cup.