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JAMES Magazine Online: the final verdict on Atlanta as a World Cup Host. Thursday, July 23rd, 2026 To read all of JAMES Magazine Online's daily news, SUBSCRIBE HERE. *Subscription includes a complimentary subscription to JAMES Magazine. As the final whistle blew on Argentina's stunning comeback victory over England in the FIFA World Cup semifinal match last Wednesday, it also marked the end of Atlanta's hosting duties and the conclusion of a remarkable summer in the city that by almost any metric has to be viewed as a dazzling success. The Atlanta World Cup Host Committee (AWCHC) was formed in 2022 to prepare for the games, bringing together stakeholders from across both political aisles and across the sprawling Atlanta metro. Overseen by the Atlanta Sports Council (itself a branch of the Metro Atlanta Chamber) it included representation from the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, AMB Sports and Entertainment, the City of Atlanta and the Georgia World Congress Center Authority. It was tasked not only with preparing for eight international matches, but also the hundreds of thousands of visitors pouring into the city and both the strain and economic opportunities that they offered. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens celebrated the team effort. "This is the Group Project in action - showcasing Atlanta to the world, providing our renowned hospitality and delivering unforgettable experiences not only for visitors from around the globe, but for Atlanta and Georgia residents who became tourists in their own city. Years of planning, preparation and partnerships paid off in a big way to deliver a safe, enjoyable experience for the hundreds of thousands of match and Fan Fest attendees, small businesses and residents - resulting in an impact that will resonate for decades." Mercedes-Benz Stadium (temporarily renamed 'Atlanta Stadium' due to FIFA licensing) received rave reviews as one of the top venues in the country. "It's downtown. It's indoors. It's gigantic," The Athletic wrote about the stadium, ranking it first among all 16 hosts. It's "the type of thing you'd sketch as a child if your art teacher said: 'No rules. Draw an imaginary stadium.'" Not lost on visiting fans were its low concession prices, mandated by Arthur Blank and surely much to FIFA's chagrin. Georgians by now may take $2 hot dogs and sodas for granted, but for British, Spanish, and Cape Verde (among many others) fans traveling between stadiums they were a revelation, sparking international headlines as a genuinely unique, fan-friendly experience. The AWCHC made a point to thank both Dickens and Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp for their close working relationship, not always a given between Republican governors and Democratic mayors in the state's capital city. But the pair have boasted a strong working and personal relationship that perhaps came to a climax this summer. "After years of preparation and incredible partnership between the state and local level, we couldn't be prouder of Georgia's showing during the FIFA World Cup 2026," said Kemp. "That's especially true for our law enforcement teams, first responders, and public safety professionals who worked tirelessly to ensure both visitors and Georgians could enjoy the matches safely. From FIFA Fan Fest to the 'Georgia the Whole Day Through' experience, it was an honor to welcome the entire world to the No. 1 state for business and our capital city." Some more numbers from the AWCHC that highlight the World Cup's success: * Mercedes-Benz Stadium welcomed 544,516 fans across Atlanta's eight matches. * FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta welcomed more than 500,000 visitors averaging more than 27,000 guests each day and ranking among the most-attended FIFA Fan Festivals in the United States. * Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosted an estimate of 2,000 media from 82 countries. * FIFA Fan Festival welcomed more than 2,200 media representatives from 89 countries across six continents. * MARTA has transported more than 2.5 million riders during the tournament period - close to a 200 percent increase from regular ridership. That's 1.7 million extra trips over the course of the event. * Atlanta's FIFA Volunteer Program included more than 2,000 volunteers who completed more than 10,000 shifts and contributed over 55,000 hours of service throughout the tournament. * More than 200 Savannah College of Art & Design students and alumni from many of the university's top-ranked degree programs contributed to AWCHC initiatives through physical and interactive art, panoramic campaign implementation, and seamlessly integrated technology. * The AWCHC's partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Georgia positively impacted more than 4,500 youth statewide through soccer-based programming. * More than 150 community events and watch parties were hosted by local organizations throughout the region, bringing fans together to celebrate the FIFA World Cup. * The AWCHC social media channels generated more than 140 million impressions between June 1 and July 15, reflecting global reach and engagement surrounding Atlanta's FIFA World Cup host city activities.

Why Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium is ranked the best venue for the Summer of Soccer. Discover why Atlanta's world-class stadium earned the top ranking among North America's major international soccer venues and what this recognition means for fans, visitors, and the city's future. Atlanta has another reason to celebrate. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, officially referred to as Atlanta Stadium during the international soccer tournament, has been recognized by USA TODAY and The New York Times as the top-ranked venue among all 16 host stadiums in North America. This recognition reflects more than an impressive stadium. It showcases Atlanta's ability to host world-class sporting events while delivering an unforgettable fan experience. With the Summer of Soccer approaching, millions of visitors are expected to discover why Atlanta continues to earn a reputation as one of the premier sports and entertainment destinations in the world. Whether you're a soccer enthusiast, planning a visit, or simply proud to call Atlanta home, here's why Mercedes-Benz Stadium stands above the rest. Why was Mercedes-Benz Stadium ranked the best host venue? Mercedes-Benz Stadium received the highest ranking because it delivers an exceptional experience from the moment fans arrive until the final whistle. Some of the features that helped earn the No. 1 ranking include: * Innovative retractable roof * Massive 360-degree Halo Video Board * Excellent sightlines throughout the stadium * Convenient downtown Atlanta location * Easy access via MARTA public transportation * Affordable concession prices * Electric match-day atmosphere created by Atlanta United supporters These features combine to create one of the most exciting environments in international soccer. What makes Atlanta an ideal host city for the Summer of Soccer? A great stadium is only part of the experience. Atlanta offers visitors everything they need to enjoy one of the world's largest international sporting events. Visitors can take advantage of: * Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport * Extensive MARTA rail system * Hundreds of hotels and accommodations * Award-winning restaurants * Attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park * A vibrant downtown entertainment district Atlanta's proven experience hosting the Olympic Games, the Super Bowl, the College Football Playoff National Championship, concerts, and international soccer matches makes it well-prepared for visitors from around the world. What matches will Atlanta host during the Summer of Soccer? Atlanta Stadium is scheduled to host eight international matches, including group-stage games, knockout-round matches, and one semifinal. Hosting one of the tournament's biggest matches places Atlanta among North America's premier sports destinations and ensures international attention throughout the event. Why soccer fans love Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Atlanta has become one of America's leading soccer cities. Atlanta United consistently attracts some of the highest attendance numbers in Major League Soccer, creating an atmosphere recognized around the world. Fans appreciate: * Passionate supporter culture * Modern stadium amenities * Comfortable seating * Fast concessions * Outstanding acoustics * Convenient access to downtown Atlanta These features helped establish Mercedes-Benz Stadium as one of North America's premier soccer venues. How could the Summer of Soccer benefit Atlanta? Hosting a major international soccer tournament is expected to generate significant tourism and economic activity throughout the region. Potential benefits include: * Increased tourism * Higher hotel occupancy * Greater exposure for local businesses * International media attention * Growth in hospitality and entertainment * Continued recognition as a premier destination for major sporting events The tournament provides an opportunity for Atlanta to showcase its culture, hospitality, and world-class infrastructure to a global audience. Why work with an AI-Certified real estate professional? Major international events often generate increased interest in the communities surrounding them. If you're considering buying or selling a home in Atlanta, staying informed about current market conditions can help you make confident decisions. As an AI-Certified real estate professional, I use advanced technology to enhance property marketing, improve communication, streamline transactions, and provide clients with timely market information. These tools complement personalized service and local expertise, helping clients navigate the real estate process with confidence. Whether you're planning to move to Atlanta, buy your next home, or simply want to stay informed about its local real estate market, I'm here to help. Let's connect to discuss your real estate goals and explore opportunities throughout the Atlanta area with trusted local expertise and innovative technology. Faq: Why is Mercedes-Benz Stadium called Atlanta Stadium during the tournament? During the international soccer tournament, the venue will be referred to as Atlanta Stadium in accordance with the event's naming guidelines. How many matches will Atlanta host? Atlanta is scheduled to host eight international matches, including group-stage contests, knockout-round games, and a semifinal. What makes Mercedes-Benz Stadium unique? Its retractable roof, Halo Video Board, excellent fan experience, convenient downtown location, and affordable concessions consistently earn praise from fans and industry experts. Is Mercedes-Benz Stadium easy to reach? Yes. The stadium is conveniently located in downtown Atlanta with direct access to MARTA public transportation, nearby parking, rideshare services, and walkable attractions. The event is expected to increase tourism, support local businesses, highlight Atlanta on the global stage, and reinforce the city's reputation as a destination for major sporting events.

Kemp's final legislative agenda focuses on affordability, infrastructure. Georgia lawmakers gathered for Gov. Kemp's final Eggs and Issues as governor. The brief. * * Hundreds of state lawmakers and business leaders gathered at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the annual Georgia Chamber of Commerce Eggs and Issues Breakfast. * House and Senate leaders discussed their priorities for the upcoming legislative session. * Governor Brian Kemp previewed some of his budget proposals ahead of Thursday's State of the State address. ATLANTA - Lawmakers and business leaders gathered at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the annual Georgia Chamber of Commerce Eggs and Issues event as the 2026 legislative session got underway. Eggs and Issues. "We are laser-focused on keeping Georgia the best place in this nation to live, work, raise a family, and do business for generations to come," House Speaker Jon Burns told attendees. House and Senate leaders discussed their legislative priorities. "We're going to concentrate on the income tax, lowering it," Lt. Gov. Burt Jones explained, "and property tax, getting a handle on that. Looking at insurance costs." Governor Kemp Previews State of the State Address Gov. Brian Kemp set the tone for his last legislative session, previewing his agenda ahead of Thursday's State of the State address. Kemp's budget proposal includes $1.8 billion to increase roadway capacity along the I-75 corridor in Henry County for the construction of dedicated express lanes in both the northbound and southbound directions. Initial estimates indicate that once the express lanes are completed, as much as 70% more vehicles will be able to pass through the busy corridor during rush hours. Gov. Brian Kemp spoke on Wednesday morning at the annual Eggs & Issues breakfast, which is part of the kickoff for the new legislative session. * An additional $200 million investment to continue improvements already underway along Georgia 316. * $250 million in funding for local road projects. * $100 million for bridge improvements in rural communities across the state. The governor is also proposing a new program designed to tackle homelessness in Atlanta and other urban areas. Known as the Homelessness Response Grant, the state would make a one-time investment of $50 million that will be coupled with funds from public, private, and nonprofit partners. Georgia's business and political leaders packed Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast, hosted by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. The event is considered one of the state's premier policy gatherings, bringing together elected officials, executives, and community leaders to discuss Georgia's economic outlook and legislative priorities. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Governor Brian Kemp both addressed the crowd, highlighting key issues facing the state. Our Deidra Dukes breaks down the major takeaways and what leaders are focusing on heading into the year ahead. The Kemp administration will also work for passage of the Education and Workforce Strategy Act to ensure continued collaboration between the University and Technical College Systems, the Georgia Department of Education, and other agencies to grow the state's workforce. "Making everyday life more affordable for hardworking Georgians will continue to be my top priority this legislative session," Kemp said. "Because Georgians know better than politicians how to spend their money." The source. * This is a FOX 5 Atlanta original report from Deidra Dukes who attended the event and heard from lawmakers.