City of Atlanta Department of Parks & Recreation and Atlanta HBCUs Launch “HBCU Futbol, Not Football” Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mayor's Office of Communication

City of Atlanta Department of Parks & Recreation and Atlanta HBCUs Launch "HBCU Futbol, Not Football" Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

ATLANTA - The City of Atlanta's Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) and the Atlanta University Center Consortium announced HBCU Futbol, Not Football, a dynamic cultural and athletic festival bringing the global sport of soccer to the heart of Atlanta's historic HBCU community. The event will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at B.T. Harvey Stadium at Morehouse College.

Timed to the growing excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the festival will unite students, alumni, families, and community members from Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Spelman College, and Morris Brown College, representing more than 10,000 people within a single square mile.

HBCU Futbol features 3v3 and 5v5 soccer tournaments, bubble soccer, interactive games, music, food, and brand activations. The tournament will be livestreamed to reach a wider global audience.

As the event's lead sponsor, DPR plays a central role in expanding access to soccer and wellness programming across Atlanta. Through youth development programs, adult and youth leagues, recreation center fitness offerings, and free or low-cost community sports initiatives, DPR's partnership strengthens the event's mission to promote health, equity, and active lifestyles.

"The world is watching Atlanta, and this celebration ensures our HBCU community is part of the global moment," said Justin Cutler, Commissioner, City of Atlanta Department of Parks & Recreation. "Together, we're highlighting Black excellence, global sport, and community wellness."

###

For more information about the City of Atlanta, please visit www.atlantaga.gov or watch City Channel 26. Follow the City of Atlanta on Facebook and Twitter @CityofAtlanta.