South metro Atlanta's businesses gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

A woman stands behind a podium surrounded by soccer balls. The projector to the left of her shows on a screen saying FIFA World Cup 2025 Business Seminar.
Jamelle McKenzie, Mayor Pro Tempore of the College Park, hosted an event for local businesses on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Business owners split into groups to design ways to attract visitors during FIFA's World Cup tournament next summer. (Marlon Hyde/WABE News)

The Metro Atlanta Chamber estimates the FIFA World Cup could spur more than $500 million in economic impact. Some businesses around the airport are preparing a year ahead.

Atlanta will host eight matches in next summer’s FIFA World Cup, which is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of spectators to the Mercedes Benz Stadium.

Mayor Pro Tempore of the College Park Jamelle McKenzie said this could be a make or break moment for many businesses.