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Atlanta will host World Cup semifinal if bid approved

Here are the venues that would be used in Atlanta.
Credit: Christian Petersen
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Atlanta will host one of two semifinals for the 2026 FIFA World Cup if the North American joint bid is accepted, according to the bid book released by FIFA.

The United States, Mexico and Canada are part of a joint bid for the 2026 World Cup. The three nations officially submitted the bid last week.

Atlanta had previously been named a potential host city for the international soccer tournament, but the official bid book submitted to FIFA reveals that Atlanta and Dallas would hold the semifinals.

"Atlanta’s vision as a Candidate Host City is to create a unified and inclusive effort to deliver passion, inspiration, and world-class football to the people of Atlanta and to the world," the bid explains. "Today, the city is considered by many as the capital of culture, commerce, transportation, education, and sport in the American South."

The bid book specifically mentions geographic location, travel distances and stadium capacity as reasons Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and AT&T Stadium in Dallas would make ideal semifinal locations. MetLife Stadium in Rutherford, New Jersey would host the World Cup Final, according to the bid book.

The bid touts Atlanta's ability to host major sporting events and its early success with Atlanta United as reasons it is deserving to be a host city. It also details its transportation and infrastructure as well as lists luxurious hotels that would be recommended for FIFA officials.

Other venues outlined in the book list possible team facilities for training and practice, including two Atlanta United Training Centers, Pace Academy Riverview Sports Complex and Georgia State University.

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