US Soccer Federation Relocates to Atlanta Due to Safety Concerns

$50 million contribution from Arthur Blank supports move

Photo byConnor CoyneonUnsplash

The US Soccer Federation is making a significant move from its long-standing home in Chicago to Atlanta. The decision comes as a response to increasing concerns over violence and public safety in Chicago, the city that has been the federation's headquarters for more than two decades. The federtation serves as the governing body of soccer in the U.S. It is responsible for overseeing 27 men's and women’s national teams.

The relocation announcement has raised eyebrows in the soccer community, as Chicago has been a hub for soccer activities in the United States. However, recent incidents of violence in the city have prompted the federation's leadership to reconsider its location.

One of the key highlights of this move from Chicago is the plan to establish the first-ever National Training Center in Atlanta. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to become a cornerstone for soccer development in the country. The decision to build this center in Atlanta underscores the federation's commitment to fostering talent and enhancing the sport's infrastructure in its new home. All 27 soccer teams under the federation umbrella will use this training center.

A notable aspect of this relocation is the generous contribution made by Arthur Blank, the founder of Home Depot Inc. and the owner of Major League Soccer's Atlanta United. Blank's $50 million contribution is seen as a significant boost to this initiative, further solidifying Atlanta's position as a burgeoning soccer hub.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp praised the move and said he was happy to host the US Soccer Federation in their new home. “Georgia is proud to welcome US Soccer’s new headquarters and looks forward to working alongside them to build a new home for American soccer players and fans,” Kemp said.

While the move from Chicago to Atlanta is seen as a pragmatic step for the US Soccer Federation in light of safety concerns, it also marks a new chapter in the city's soccer journey. With the promise of a cutting-edge National Training Center and substantial support from figures like Arthur Blank, the federation's relocation is poised to leave a lasting impact on American soccer.

Atlanta is excited to be one of 16 cities in the US, Canada and Mexico in 2026 that will host FIFA World Cup games.