Atlanta and Mercedes-Benz Stadium are in the final stages of World Cup preparations. With 150 days until Spain plays Cape Verde on June 15, organizers are finalizing plans for a complimentary fan festival in Centennial Olympic Park, implementing heat safety measures, completing stadium upgrades, and covering thousands of logos throughout the facility, including the prominent Mercedes-Benz roof emblem.
Dan Corso, president of the Atlanta World Cup committee, outlined festival plans to occur during all eight match days. The event will be free to accommodate both ticket holders and those seeking a World Cup experience without tickets. Dietmar Exler, the stadium's vice president, expressed enthusiasm about hosting Spain, stating: "We are truly excited to have Spain here, the No. 1 team in the world."
The stadium's synthetic playing surface will be removed starting January 31 to install natural grass. The new turf will combine rye and bluegrass with embedded synthetic fibers, designed to prevent burning while maintaining firm footing. Atlanta United will play eight matches on this grass before removal and reinstallation for the tournament.
Stadium upgrades include enhanced field lighting, expanded Wi-Fi and cellular coverage, and renovated suites. FIFA regulations also require covering all sponsorship signage throughout the venue — the most challenging task involves covering the roof's Mercedes-Benz logo using vinyl application, which stadium operations VP Adam Fullerton acknowledged as "Easier said than done."
Two U.S. friendlies are already scheduled for March, with additional international matches under discussion. Several national federations have already toured the facility ahead of the summer tournament.
Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution