The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is still weeks away, but in neighborhoods across Atlanta, the world’s game is already doing what it does best: bringing people together.
On May 13, nearly 150 students and family members gathered at Benteen Park for the latest Una Comunidad, Un Gol (One Community, One Goal) soccer activation hosted by the Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs’ Welcoming Atlanta initiative in partnership with Sons of Pitches FC and Benteen Elementary School.
The Una Comunidad, Un Gol initiative uses the sport as a way to create connections between neighbors, activate public spaces, and celebrate the many cultures that make Atlanta unique. Organizers intentionally focus on intergenerational play, encouraging children, parents, grandparents, and community members to participate together.
That mission was especially fitting at Benteen Elementary School, one of nine Atlanta Public Schools offering a Dual Language Immersion Program, where students learn a second language alongside English beginning in preschool.
As Atlanta prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, events like these demonstrate how soccer can serve as a common language across cultures, backgrounds, and generations.
The City of Atlanta’s Welcoming Atlanta team has hosted a series of Una Comunidad, Un Gol activations in neighborhoods across the city, helping residents experience the excitement of the sport while building stronger community connections ahead of the tournament.
World Cup Wednesday
As Atlanta counts down to FIFA World Cup 2026™, community events like Una Comunidad, Un Gol are helping ensure that the tournament’s impact extends far beyond the stadium—creating opportunities for residents to connect, play, and celebrate together in neighborhoods across the city.
