Atlanta United FC will host Major League Soccer's (MLS) 2018 All-Star Game at their new Mercedes-Benz stadium, reports, www.sportspromedia.com/.
The annual soccer match, which features a squad of the top MLS players facing off against a leading international team, will take place next year in Atlanta, with details to be announced later in the season.
As well as the match, the club will host nearly a week of events surrounding the game, including concerts, community service initiatives, player appearances and a showcase match featuring the best young players in the league.
Atlanta United, whose new high-tech ground opened on 26th August, made their stadium debut on 10th September against FC Dallas. The new venue, which cost an estimated $1.6 billion, features a unique retractable roof and an app to inform fans of navigation to and around the stadium, amongst other digital fan experiences.
The team set an MLS season record with an average of 48,200 fans per game at their new home, as well as twice setting the MLS single-game attendance record, most recently reaching 71,874 on 22nd October against Toronto FC.
"We're proud to bring our 2018 All-Star Game to Atlanta, a city and club that have taken Major League Soccer by storm," said MLS commissioner, Don Garber.
"Atlanta United's success is one of the most compelling and impressive expansion team launches in the history of pro sports, and a testament to Arthur Blank's vision and leadership, and the tremendous team that he has built both on and off the field. Atlanta and its supporters have earned the opportunity to host MLS All-Star week and showcase their passion for the beautiful game."
