A decade ago, many sports executives doubted whether professional soccer could succeed in Atlanta. Today, the city is one of the fastest-growing soccer hubs in the United States, home to packed stadiums, a passionate fan base, and some of the biggest events in the sport.
The rise of Atlanta United FC has helped transform Atlanta into a major soccer destination, while investments from billionaire owner Arthur Blank continue shaping the city’s future in the global game.
Atlanta’s Soccer Boom Began With Atlanta United
When Major League Soccer awarded Atlanta an expansion franchise, many questioned whether the city could support professional soccer. Atlanta’s sports reputation had taken several hits, including the departures of NHL franchises and ongoing struggles among local pro teams.
Despite the skepticism, Atlanta United launched in 2017 and immediately shattered expectations. The club quickly became one of the most successful franchises in MLS history, regularly leading the league in attendance and drawing crowds of more than 50,000 fans.
The team’s early success helped establish soccer as a mainstream sport in the city. Supporters packed matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, creating one of the loudest and most energetic atmospheres in American soccer.
Arthur Blank’s Vision Changed Atlanta Soccer
Arthur Blank, owner of the Atlanta Falcons and co-founder of Home Depot, played a major role in Atlanta’s soccer transformation.
Blank envisioned Atlanta becoming a soccer powerhouse in North America. His investment in Mercedes-Benz Stadium provided Atlanta United with a world-class venue capable of hosting major international matches, including FIFA tournaments.
Blank also helped bring the new U.S. Soccer Federation national headquarters and training center to the Atlanta area. The new 200-acre facility in Fayetteville includes multiple training fields, indoor facilities, and office space for U.S. Soccer operations.
The project further cemented Atlanta’s growing importance in American soccer.
Atlanta to Host Major FIFA World Cup Matches
Atlanta’s rise has attracted global attention from FIFA. The city is scheduled to host eight matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including a semifinal.
The tournament will bring some of the world’s biggest national teams and stars to Atlanta, showcasing the city on the international stage.
Atlanta also hosted several matches during the FIFA Club World Cup and remains a candidate for future international soccer events, including a possible role in the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
NWSL Expansion Adds to Atlanta’s Soccer Future
Atlanta’s soccer momentum is not limited to MLS. The city is set to receive a new National Women’s Soccer League franchise in 2028.
The expansion team has already secured major sponsorship commitments, including a record-setting jersey sponsorship agreement with Aflac. League officials believe Atlanta’s strong ownership group and growing soccer culture make it one of the most promising expansion markets in women’s soccer.
Why Soccer Thrives in Atlanta
Several factors have contributed to Atlanta’s soccer success:
- A diverse and multicultural population with deep ties to the sport
- Strong youth soccer participation throughout Georgia
- Major corporate support from Fortune 500 companies
- World-class stadiums and training facilities
- Easy travel access through one of the world’s busiest airports
Executives across the soccer world now view Atlanta as one of the premier soccer markets in the country.
Atlanta’s Soccer Future Looks Bright
What once seemed unlikely has become reality. Atlanta has evolved from a city doubted by sports insiders into a centerpiece of soccer in the United States.
With Atlanta United continuing to draw massive crowds, the arrival of an NWSL franchise, and the city preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Atlanta’s role in the future of American soccer continues to grow.
For fans across the country, Atlanta is no longer just a football town — it has become one of the true capitals of soccer in North America.