‘We anticipate great news’ Atlanta bracing for FIFA World Cup host cities announcement

ATLANTA, Ga. (CBS46) – On Thursday, FIFA will lastly announce the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. And on the quick record – Atlanta.

“We anticipate excellent news, nice information for our metropolis and our state,” stated Dan Corso, President of the Atlanta Sports activities Council.

If chosen, the town might hit the jackpot. U.S. Soccer tasks a number metropolis might make upwards of $480 million {dollars} throughout the 2026 World Cup.

In 2018, FIFA awarded Mexico, Canada, and the US because the host nations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Thursday at 5 p.m. ET, FIFA will announce the host cities throughout an hour-long telecast.

FIFA is predicted to select between 16 to 19 host cities, with probably as much as 12 within the U.S.

Corso and the Atlanta Sports activities Council organized Atlanta’s formal bid, together with the Metropolis of Atlanta, the state of Georgia, the Atlanta Conference and Guests Bureau, Georgia World Congress Heart, and Mercedes Benz Stadium.

Corso stated what makes Atlanta stand out is its historical past of internet hosting premier sports activities occasions, it’s worldwide connectivity by way of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Worldwide Airport, and its soccer fan base by way of Atlanta United.

“We’ve bought a fame of being a terrific vacation spot for these sporting occasions as a terrific host,” stated Corso in an interview with CBS46 on Wednesday.

He pointed to the 1996 Olympics, the 2018 School Soccer Nationwide Championship, and the 2019 Tremendous Bowl.

Atlanta United had the very best attendance common of any MLS crew in 2021.

Corso stated that Mercedes-Benz Stadium must convert its area to pure grass if chosen.

Protection of the announcement is slated for five p.m. ET on FS1.

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