Traffic flows in and out of downtown Atlanta on the I-75/I-85 Connector Thursday, May 19, 2016, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off in Atlanta on Monday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with the first of eight matches taking place through July 15.
The international festivities have brought thousands of tourists to the city, which, in turn, has led to traffic delays for metro Atlanta commuters.
The Atlanta Regional Commission — through its Georgia Commute Options program — released a guide on what to expect when traveling on and off the road in the coming weeks.
How many visitors are expected to travel to Atlanta?
Georgia Commute Options collected data from several regional partners and sources, including FIFA, the Atlanta World Cup Host Committee, City of Atlanta and Atlanta Department of Transportation, MARTA, Atlanta Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and the Georgia Department of Transportation.
An estimated 65,000 spectators are expected per match, with a stadium capacity of 73,019.
The FIFA Fan Festival Days will take place over 18 match days at Centennial Olympic Park. The event has a capacity of 15,000.
In comparison, the College Football Playoff National Championship draws 77,660 spectators, and Dragon Con draws 75,000 fans over four days.
How can MARTA be a go-to during the World Cup?
The transit agency has announced that MARTA trains will arrive every five minutes from the start of service until 10:30 p.m. on match days.
MARTA will also have ambassadors available on site at several stations to assist new commuters.
Travelers who work downtown and in Midtown or Buckhead are encouraged to find a MARTA park and ride lot and take the train from there on match days.
What are the best ways to avoid road delays during the World Cup?
Georgia Commute Options provided these tips to beat traffic caused by World Cup events:
Commute earlier or later on match days to avoid peak times when fans are arriving or leaving, especially if you are traveling around the stadium and downtown area. On noon kickoff days, commute before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.; on evening match days (6 p.m. kickoff), commute before 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.; and on semi-final days (3 p.m. kickoff), commute before noon or after 7 p.m. or during the match.
Plan for surprises – Due to traveling accommodations for teams, world leaders and other VIPs during the matches, delays or stoppages may be experienced for those on the road. Teams will travel from Buckhead to downtown and back, and to training facilities throughout the matches.
Leave your vehicle at home if possible. If you are able to use alternative transportation, whether MARTA train or bus, bike, or scooter, there is a better chance of fewer delays on your trip.
The Atlanta Regional Commission — through its Georgia Commute Options program — created a World Cup commuter guide. (Courtesy of Atlanta Regional Commission)
