Atlanta contacted about 2026 World Cup

ATLANTA — Atlanta is going to be part of the bid to host some games in the 2026 World Cup.

A joint North American bid hopes to bring 80 matches here, with 60 played in the U.S.

"We project to play a big part in the 2026 World Cup," said Dan Corso, President of the Atlanta Sports Council.

Corso said Atlanta has been contacted about being a potential site for multiple matches.

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"Started reaching out, and in our case in the U.S., reached out to us to just start asking some questions if interested in moving forward in the bid process with them," Corso said.

The hope is to land a semi-final or even the final match.

The games would be played at the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

"We can have a full-size FIFA pitch here, one of the things that can make this one of the top venues when the World Cup comes to America," a crew member said during a tour of the stadium.

Atlanta United has proved that the city has a large soccer fan base, leading the league in attendance.

A World Cup could bring a big boost to the city.

"There's a huge economic side and impact to hosting a World Cup, but also a great social impact," Corso said.

The final bid is due in March.

Atlanta was part of the United States' failed bid to host the 2022 World Cup.

Cox Media Group