Atlanta Hosts The People's Cup Community Soccer Tournament

Free 3v3 tournament brings together 19 teams representing local organizations and countries.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:00pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract soccer match, with overlapping planes of bright primary colors representing the energy and community spirit of the event.The People's Cup tournament reclaims the soccer pitch for Atlanta's diverse communities ahead of the 2026 World Cup.Atlanta Today

In response to the 2026 World Cup coming to Atlanta, a group of community organizers are hosting a free 3v3 soccer tournament called The People's Cup. The tournament aims to reclaim the sport for the people, rather than just corporate interests, and showcase Atlanta's diverse communities. Teams representing 19 different countries and local organizations will compete at Candler Park on April 19, 2026.

Why it matters

As Atlanta prepares to host the 2026 World Cup, there are concerns about rising costs and displacement of local residents. The People's Cup seeks to counter this by creating an inclusive, community-driven soccer event that celebrates the city's diversity and grassroots power.

The details

The People's Cup is a free 3v3 small-sided soccer tournament open to players aged 18 and older. Teams will have 6-10 players and represent 19 different countries as well as local community organizations. The tournament will take place on Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Candler Park in Atlanta.

  • The People's Cup tournament will take place on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
  • The event will run from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The players

The People's Cup

A free 3v3 community soccer tournament in Atlanta that aims to reclaim the sport for the people rather than corporate interests ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Candler Park

The Atlanta park where The People's Cup tournament will be held.

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What’s next

The tournament organizers are still accepting team registrations for the event.

The takeaway

The People's Cup is a grassroots effort to celebrate community, diversity, and the people's game of soccer in Atlanta ahead of the 2026 World Cup, countering concerns about rising costs and displacement.