Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange on March 2, 2026, to mark 100 days until the city's first FIFA World Cup match. The ceremony highlighted ongoing preparations for hosting eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Officials emphasized the event's potential for jobs and tourism.
On March 2, 2026, just before 9:30 a.m. ET, members of the Atlanta FIFA World Cup Host Committee gathered at the New York Stock Exchange to ring the opening bell, signaling the countdown to the tournament. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp led the effort, joined by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Katie Kirkpatrick of the Metro Atlanta Chamber, and Dan Corso of the Atlanta Sports Council. As trading commenced, cheers erupted on the floor, followed by chants of "ATL, ATL," with Dickens participating and Kemp applauding.
The event underscores Atlanta's role in the FIFA 2026 World Cup, which begins on June 11 in Mexico City, Mexico. The city's first match is scheduled for June 15 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, featuring Spain versus Cabo Verde in Group H. Atlanta will host eight matches total, including five group stage games, one Round of 32, one Round of 16, and a semifinal on July 15. Preparations include upgrades to the MARTA transit system, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and the hospitality sector to accommodate tens of thousands of fans.
Governor Kemp commented on X: "Marty and I were honored to ring the bell this morning alongside Mayor Dickens at the New York Stock Exchange. 100 days to go!" Lieutenant Governor Jones added in a video: "This is more than just soccer — it's jobs, tourism, and a global spotlight. Georgia is built for this moment." The Metro Atlanta Chamber stated: "The South has something to say. Atlanta's newest moment in the spotlight is here, and we're ready to shine."
The host committee comprises organizations such as the Atlanta Sports Council, Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau, Atlanta United FC, the State of Georgia, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Atlanta's match schedule also includes South Africa versus a Group A team on June 18, Spain versus Saudi Arabia on June 21, Morocco versus Haiti on June 24, Uzbekistan versus a Group K team on June 27, a Round of 32 match on July 1, and a Round of 16 on July 7.
