Will the World Cup fuel a crackdown on unhoused Atlantans?

As World Cup matches begin, advocates warn that Atlanta is on track to repeat the arrests, displacement, and criminalization of homeless residents that drew criticism during the city's 1996 Olympics.

1 minute read

June 19, 2026, 5:00 AM PDT

By Shelterforce


Crowd of soccer fans outside Atlanta stadium celebrating 2026 World Cup.

World Cup fans in Atlanta, Georgia. | Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to Atlanta, advocates warn the city could repeat the arrests, encampment removals, and displacement of unhoused residents that accompanied the 1996 Olympics. 

This Shelterforce article examines how despite saying they will not repeat the past, the city is poised through a lack of coordination and commitment, to do just that. Hostile architecture in downtown parks, a police department not working with the jail diversion program, and insufficient housing options make advocates for the homeless extremely concerned.

Friday, June 12, 2026 in Shelterforce Magazine

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