Six months ahead of Atlanta's debut as a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, excitement is already reaching fever pitch on both sides of the Atlantic. In Buckhead Village, Atlanta, soccer fans, city officials, and international guests gathered for a festive block party organized by the Atlanta World Cup Host Committee to watch the live draw for the tournament. Flags from around the world waved in the chilly afternoon air, scarves were proudly displayed, and the city’s pride in being part of soccer history was unmistakable.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is set to be the largest and most international edition yet, with Atlanta scheduled to host matches on June 16, 18, 21, July 7, 12, 15, and 18. That’s a lot of soccer for a city that’s already made a name for itself as a sports capital! The block party outside Fado Irish Pub wasn’t just about watching the draw—it was about celebrating Atlanta’s role on the global stage and the anticipation of welcoming fans from every corner of the world.
“It’s the spirit of Atlanta,” said Georgia World Cup Host Committee president Dan Corso, beaming as fans from Senegal, Haiti, Ghana, France, and Belgium mingled with locals. “You can feel the pride and excitement in the city every day. Atlanta is uniquely positioned to showcase soccer not just because of its rich history but because of its diversity and the way it welcomes the whole world.”
Those sentiments were echoed by local fans and recent transplants alike. Cassie Gooding, an American events professional who moved to Atlanta from Toronto, shared, “There’s a camaraderie that only exists for events like this. I think the World Cup is the biggest tournament in the world, maybe even bigger than the Olympics. It brings people together, and Atlanta is the perfect host.”
Atlanta’s soccer credentials have only grown in recent years, thanks to the success of Atlanta United FC and the city’s passionate embrace of the sport. Walker Zimmerman, a defender and captain for the U.S. Men’s National Team, reflected on the growth: “When you see how the fan base has expanded, it’s obvious—Atlanta is a soccer city now. The World Cup is going to take it to another level.”
Across the pond, the United Kingdom is preparing for its own World Cup festivities, but with a distinctly British twist. On December 4, 2025, the UK government launched a six-week public consultation to consider extending pub licensing hours in England and Wales during the World Cup. The proposal? If England, Scotland, or another home nation makes it to at least the quarterfinals, pubs could stay open until 1 a.m. for the semifinals and final—provided the matches kick off at 9 p.m. or earlier.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood made her support clear: “Our nation’s pubs are going into extra time. If any home nation reaches the final stages, we will extend licensing hours. The party won’t end before the final whistle is blown. And in a personal capacity, I would like to add: It’s coming home.” Her words captured the nation’s hopeful spirit and the unique role pubs play in British football culture.
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night-Time Industries Association, backed the move, saying, “As we look forward to the 2026 football World Cup, the Night Time Industries Association welcomes the government’s proposal to launch a public consultation on extending licensing hours for pubs and bars in England and Wales. The World Cup is a globally celebrated event that brings communities together, and extending licensing hours will allow fans to enjoy the matches safely, responsibly, and in a vibrant social atmosphere.”
Kate Nicholls, Chair of UKHospitality, added, “The pub is the home of football, and the atmosphere for the World Cup is always incredible as fans gather to cheer on the home nations. Outside of the stadium itself, it’s the best place to watch the games and I’m pleased the government is once again looking at extended licensing hours. Not only will it generate the best atmosphere for fans, but it can provide a real boost for hospitality businesses.”
England’s group stage schedule for the World Cup has already been announced, adding to the anticipation. The Three Lions will open against Croatia at 9 p.m. UK time in Dallas, face Ghana at 9 p.m. in Boston, and close out the group stage against Panama with a 10 p.m. kick-off at New York New Jersey Stadium. Scotland, meanwhile, faces a daunting 2 a.m. opener against Haiti. These late-night matches are a driving force behind the push for extended pub hours, ensuring fans can watch every minute of the action in a lively, communal setting.
The Home Secretary’s authority to extend licensing hours isn’t new—previous exceptions were made for the Women’s 2025 Euros, the Men’s 2024 Euro final, and the Women’s Euro 2022 Final, all of which saw pubs buzzing with football fever deep into the night. The current consultation will run until January 2026, with a decision expected soon after, giving fans and business owners time to prepare for what could be a summer of unforgettable nights.
Back in Atlanta, the city is already bracing for the influx of fans, media, and global attention. Mayor Andre Dickens noted, “With Atlanta being a host city, it’s not just about the matches—it’s about welcoming the world and showing what makes this city special. The World Cup means the largest moments in history for teams and fans alike.”
Former U.S. Men’s National Team goalkeeper Brad Guzan, now an Atlanta resident, summed up the city’s mood: “The World Cup is truly about bringing soccer to life, not just for the players, but for the city and the country. Atlanta is ready, and I can’t wait to see the city come alive.”
For both Atlanta and the UK, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up to be more than just a tournament—it’s a celebration of soccer’s power to unite, inspire, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re cheering in a packed pub in London or soaking up the atmosphere in Atlanta’s Buckhead Village, one thing is certain: the world will be watching, and the party is just getting started.
