Kevin Egan’s Atlanta World Cup Guide
This summer, as Atlanta steps onto the global stage to host its first-ever FIFA World Cup, few voices are better suited to guide locals through the moment than Kevin Egan. The Major League Soccer (MLS) commentator, World Cup Host Committee Ambassador, devoted dad and proud Irishman brings insider knowledge and infectious enthusiasm to help you navigate what he calls “the greatest show on earth.”
How To Get in the Game
For Atlantans new to soccer, Egan’s advice is simple: Don’t overthink it. Dive in, embrace it and enjoy the fun, the flavor and the flair that comes with a World Cup. You don’t need decades of soccer knowledge to feel the magic. Instead, start with the stories.
Every tournament is filled with stories, but this year’s lineup is especially rich. “There are so many underdog stories at this World Cup,” Egan notes. Haiti, for instance, has qualified for the first time since 1974—despite not being able to play qualifiers on home soil due to political unrest. Cabo Verde, a nation of just 10 islands off the West Coast of Africa, will take on powerhouse Spain in what promises to be one of the most electric underdog matchups.
From there, embrace the superstar spectacle. “This World Cup transcends generations,” Egan says. “Icons like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are still playing, while established stars in their prime like Kylian Mbappé and teenage phenoms like Lamine Yamal are ready to make their mark.”
And if you’re still unsure who to root for? Pick a team with a compelling journey and soak up the culture and fun. The emotional investment, he says, is what transforms a casual viewer into a passionate fan.
The Hidden Gems of the Experience
While tickets to matches may come with a steep price tag, some of the best World Cup experiences are free and just steps from the stadium. As one of the hosts of the FIFA Fan Fest in Centennial Olympic Park, Egan will be right in the mix with fans, helping bring the energy and excitement. “FIFA Fan Fest is going to be sensational fun! The organizers are doing a phenomenal job, and they’ll have celebs, entertainment, massive screens and a great atmosphere to enjoy,” he says.
But the real insider tip? Treat the city itself as part of the event. Neighborhood events like Decatur WatchFest ’26, Atlanta Beltline Fest and Midtown MatchDay Festival are turning the city into one big, fan-driven celebration. Egan is especially excited about Cosm, a new “sphere-like” theater concept designed to deliver an almost surreal viewing experience for fans who want to feel like they’re inside the match without actually being there.
Raising the Bar with The Irish Exit
As Atlanta prepares for its global debut, Egan is stepping into a new role off-camera. His latest venture, The Irish Exit, is set to open in Centennial Yards just in time for kickoff.
Created in partnership with acclaimed hospitality group The Dead Rabbit—twice named World’s Best Pub—along with Atlanta’s own Pierce White, the space aims to blend Irish charm with Atlanta’s warmth. Think expertly poured Guinness, elevated pub fare and craft cocktails designed to rival the best in the country.
For Egan, it’s about more than drinks. It’s about creating a gathering place. “Everybody’s welcome,” he says, envisioning it as the go-to matchday hub for families and friends. “Over 500,000 fans are en route to Atlanta, and everyone knows the best place to meet for a cold one is an Irish pub!”
Life Beyond the Pitch
Despite a career that spans global broadcasts—from Champions League coverage to MLS on Apple TV—Egan’s proudest role is at home. A father of two, he’s intentional about carving out time with his kids. “Because I travel so much for my role with Apple TV, it makes my time with James (7) and Maisie (4) that much more important,” he says. “Honestly, kicking a ball with the kids in the back garden, or playing hide and seek around the house, is never a chore. I love it.
That same philosophy carries into his approach to health and wellness. Between soccer, pickleball and workouts with his wife, Megan, at Burn Boot Camp, Egan leans into the fun and prioritizes consistency, not perfection. “There’s got to be balance,” he says. “Make it a habit, and then enjoy the cookie.”
While Egan’s favorite saying may be ‘These Are The Good Old Days,’ he’s also committed to gearing up for the future. Through mentorship, community involvement and volunteering with Soccer in the Streets, he’s opening doors for the next generation, especially in underserved communities. It’s all part of a bigger picture: growing soccer’s footprint in Atlanta and ensuring the city’s World Cup moment leaves a lasting legacy.
