The U.S. Soccer Federation’s Board of Directors selected metro Atlanta for a first-of-its-kind national training center and new headquarters. The Federation — commonly referred to as U.S. Soccer — approved the decision during its board meeting Friday morning, with the details of the facility still in development.
“Georgia is proud to welcome U.S. Soccer’s new headquarters and looks forward to working alongside them to build a new home for American soccer players and fans,” said Gov. Brian Kemp in response to the Board’s decision.
Atlanta United Owner and Home Depot founder Arthur M. Blank has contributed $50 million toward the project. His team cheered the decision on social media.
Kemp said the project will create new opportunities for local businesses and Georgians.
The future of U.S. soccer is bright’
The U.S. Soccer Federation is the exclusive governing body of soccer in the United States. The organization oversees the training and competition of the women’s and men’s national teams, the development of youth players, referee training, and the growth of soccer’s popularity in the United States.
All 27 of U.S. Soccer’s National Teams will use the facility, which will also serve as the headquarters for the organization.
“This National Training Center will accelerate the growth of soccer in this country and will represent a commitment to developing elite soccer players for decades to come,” said U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone. “Investing in youth and adult programs as well as our Extended National Teams, reflects our commitment to ensuring that players of all ages and backgrounds can find a home and thrive in this sport.”
Cone said the investment in a national training center and headquarters is a signal “to our players, coaches, referees, members, and fans that the future of U.S. Soccer is bright.”
Details and agreements for the proposed facility are still being worked out. Plans are for the facility to be located in the metro Atlanta region. U.S. Soccer is pursuing potential sites and is conducting due diligence to assess their feasibility. The Board is expected to make a final decision in January 2024.
World Cup and sports tourism
Atlanta is one of 16 host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be played across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The tournament will include 48 teams and 104 matches under a new expanded format, making it the largest FIFA World Cup in history.
With Friday’s announcement, Georgia is now poised to become home to U.S. Soccer, adding to its tourism draw.
“Sports tourism is a popular and growing driver of economic impact in communities across the nation and here in Georgia,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Marketing Officer Mark Jaronski. “It complements convention business and inspires fans, athletes, and officials to come together through travel to cities like Atlanta – a global leader among sports destinations.”
Georgia’s tourism industry generated $73 billion in total economic impact and supported more than 442,600 jobs in 2022. The state welcomed nearly 167 million domestic visitors, resulting in $39.8 billion in visitor spending.
