Anticipation is high in Atlanta, as the city sets the stage for the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup, followed by the World Cup itself next year. More than 800 volunteers are already on the front lines, preparing for the Club World Cup matches kicking off at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, FOX5 Atlanta reports. This major event is expected to put Atlanta back on the world map in a big way, much like the '96 Summer Olympics did, as Dan Corson, president of the Atlanta Sports Council, then mentioned.
With a vibrant sense of pride, the volunteer contingent at Georgia Tech gathered for their assignments, eager to play a significant role throughout the tournament. Craig Collins, recognized as FIFA’s one millionth volunteer, met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. "I put out my hand. I said, ‘Ciao Gianni. Yeah, good to meet you,’" Collins told FOX5 Atlanta. Even beyond the pitch, Atlanta officials and businesses are not taking a backseat, having begun preparations for the bigger FIFA World Cup, with Mercedes-Benz Stadium slated to transform into a FIFA-ready venue.
According to 11Alive, security and infrastructure are top priorities for the city. Lachandra Burks, the COO of the City of Atlanta, stressed the importance of these aspects, with the Atlanta Police and other agencies set to boost their presence. The city is also looking to enhance the experience for international visitors by addressing language barriers and improving traffic patterns.
With nine to ten countries expected to bring their teams to Atlanta, and the city having already played host to other significant events, there's confidence in the air. Guests aren't wasting any time either; they've booked 127,000 hotel rooms already, and that figure is projected to double. The Atlanta World Cup Host Committee is communicating with transit authorities to ensure efficient transport during the events. "We’re used to big events, but for this long duration… We’ll be taxed a little bit," Atlanta Police Deputy Chief Charles Hampton, welcoming supporters from around the world but reminded them, "the violence and disorderly conduct, we ask that you leave that from where you brought it from,” according to a 11Alive interview.
