As Atlanta prepares to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, city leadership welcomed FIFA officials and representatives from participating national teams for an official workshop dinner earlier this week.
The gathering took place March 3 at the World of Coca-Cola, bringing together FIFA senior leadership, team service representatives, and host city partners for an evening focused on collaboration and preparation ahead of the world’s largest sporting event.
Mayor Andre Dickens joined the group to welcome international guests and reaffirm Atlanta’s commitment to delivering a world-class tournament experience.
Atlanta Ready for the Global Stage
Speaking to attendees, Mayor Dickens highlighted Atlanta’s long history of hosting major global events and the city’s readiness to once again welcome the world.
“On behalf of the great city of Atlanta, it is my honor and genuine pleasure to welcome you here tonight,” Mayor Dickens said. “When the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to Atlanta and the eyes of the world turn to us once again, we will be ready.”
Atlanta is one of 16 host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the expanded 2026 tournament, which will feature 48 national teams competing across North America.
City officials say preparations across transportation, hospitality, public safety, and infrastructure are already underway to ensure teams and fans experience the best of what Atlanta has to offer.
A City Built for Major Moments
Mayor Dickens noted that Atlanta’s experience hosting major international events positions the city well for the tournament.
Thirty years ago, the city hosted the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, an event that placed Atlanta firmly on the global stage. Since then, Atlanta has welcomed Super Bowls, NCAA Final Fours, and major international conventions.
“We know how to do big events well. We know how to deliver,” Dickens told the group. “And we know how to make every single person who walks through our doors feel that they belong here.”
More Than a Tournament
City leaders emphasized that the World Cup represents more than just a series of matches. It is also a cultural and economic moment for Atlanta and the broader region.
Billions of viewers around the world will tune in to watch the tournament, making it one of the largest global sporting events ever staged.
“We are not simply hosting a soccer tournament,” Dickens said. “We are hosting a moment.”
For Atlanta, that moment reflects the city’s identity as a global crossroads for culture, innovation, and international connection.
Welcoming the World to Atlanta
Mayor Dickens closed his remarks by reminding guests that Atlanta’s story is deeply connected to global culture, civil rights history, and creative influence.
From the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement to Atlanta’s global impact on music, arts, and culture, the city has long played an influential role on the world stage.
“We are a city that looks like the world, and we are ready to welcome the world,” Dickens said.
With international teams and fans expected to arrive in large numbers in 2026, city leaders say partnerships like this week’s FIFA workshop help ensure Atlanta is fully prepared.
“Atlanta is ready,” Dickens told attendees. “Atlanta is excited. And Atlanta cannot wait to show you how we truly influence everything.”
