City to Showcase International Sports, Culture, and Community as a Premier Destination During the FIFA World Cup Experience Across Metro Atlanta
As the world turns its attention to metro Atlanta during the FIFA World Cup 2026, the East Point Convention & Visitors Bureau (EPCVB) today unveiled a series of FIFA World Cup activations, international partnerships, and visitor experiences designed to showcase East Point on a global stage. At the center of the celebration is East Point Global Diaspora Legends Activation. Taking place June 16–19, the four-day event is led by South African football legend Doctor Khumalo, serving as Honorary Chair. It will bring together internationally recognized soccer legends, cultural leaders, and community influencers representing the African and Caribbean diaspora.
Programming includes youth activities, community engagement, remarks from East Point Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem Shean Atkins, and participation by Kareem Ladipo, President of Soccer in the Streets East Point. A highlight of the event will be the FIFA Legends Friendly Match, featuring soccer legends from around the world competing against Morehouse College alumni. The Global Diaspora Legends Activation is expected to attract visitors, community leaders, and soccer fans from across the region during one of the world’s most-watched sporting events. It is designed to inspire youth, strengthen international connections, and celebrate the diverse communities that help define East Point. Additional activities include collaborations with organizations in South Africa and Nigeria, expanded youth programming through Soccer in the Streets, and exclusive FIFA-inspired merchandise.
“East Point has spent the last three years intentionally building relationships, creating opportunities, and positioning our city on the global stage,” said Chantel Ross Francois, President and CEO of the East Point Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The FIFA World Cup presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase who we are as a community. Through international partnerships, youth engagement, and visitor experiences, we are proud to welcome the world to East Point. Located less than five minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, our city is uniquely positioned to connect visitors to the people, culture, and experiences that make this community special.”
Among the featured activations are custom-designed jerseys, scarves, and flags developed through international collaborations, as well as a limited-edition collection of commemorative bottles featuring eight unique designs celebrating notable East Point destinations and attractions. Fans who collect all eight bottles will have an opportunity to win official FIFA merchandise.
East Point’s connection to global athletics extends beyond the FIFA World Cup. The city is home to Georgia’s only velodrome, originally constructed for the 1996 Olympic Games, and shares a historic connection with South Africa, whose Olympic athletes trained and stayed in East Point during the Atlanta Olympic Games.
As the world comes to metro Atlanta, East Point is ready to welcome visitors and showcase the people, partnerships, and experiences that make the city unique. For additional information, visit visiteastpoint.org.
