ATLANTA — Fans have a chance to help bring the FIFA World Cup to Atlanta, and express their passion for the sport this summer as the city prepares to host a number of events and activities to celebrate and support the world's largest sporting event, according to a release from the Atlanta Sports Council.
"This effort is yet another example of key influencers throughout the city of Atlanta coming together and working extremely hard to put Atlanta and Georgia in a position to host the biggest sporting event in the world in either 2018 or 2022," said Dan Corso, Atlanta Sports Council executive director.
"Hosting the FIFA World Cup will give the United States and Atlanta the opportunity to bring the world to our doorstep and connect people from around the globe. The FIFA World Cup presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for cities like Atlanta to be the site of a worldwide celebration."
The United States is in contention to host either the 2018 or 2022 FIFA World Cup, and Atlanta is one of 18 cities vying to make the cut to the final 12. FIFA will announce the winning countries for both 2018 and 2022 on Dec. 2.
Soccer fans can watch the World Cup on Channel 2 and ABC through July 11th
LINK: Sign The Official Petition Fans are encouraged to support a number of local activities, ranging from viewing parties to special exhibits. And the underlying theme throughout all of these efforts is to drive fans to sign an online petition showing their support to bring the games to the United States and Atlanta.
Hosting a FIFA World Cup™ has enormous business potential. Estimates are that 5,000-8,000 jobs would be created and bring between $400 to $600 million of economic impact to the metro area, roughly the equivalent of hosting four Super Bowls, of which Atlanta has hosted two (1994 and 2000).
Because the games are held during the summer tourist season, attendees would provide a visitation boost for the city's hotels, restaurant and attractions. International visitors are likely to come early or stay late to experience Atlanta and the South.