The following is story sourced from both 13WMAZ.com and Mercer Athletics.
Is Macon the next worldwide soccer destination? Yesterday’s news is a bright sign of real possibility.
In partnership with Macon-Bibb County, Visit Macon and the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Mercer University Athletics announced Tuesday afternoon that it will serve as home base for the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) throughout its run in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup which will be held June 14th – July 13th nationwide.
But before they head into battle under the bright lights of Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the LAFC was in the market for a suitable place to prepare and practice.
Enter Mercer University’s Betts Stadium, home to the men’s and women’s soccer programs which underwent “seven-figure” renovations to rise to the occasion and meet the standards of a World Cup facility.
According to 13WMAZ, Mercer’s Director of Athletics Jim Cole said during the press conference that he knew they had to “make some changes if they wanted to get the chance to host.”
(Video courtesy 13WMAZ.com)
“I quickly realized our pitch was not up to world cup standards,” Cole said.
So that led to ripping up the foundation, and laying down a new and improved field -which isn’t cheap.
“I’m not going to give you the total figure but it was seven figures to get that facility to world cup standards,” Cole said.
That wasn’t the only announcement.
“We’ve been approved already as a practice site for next summer’s world cup right here in Macon, which is going to host games in Atlanta,” Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller said.
“Folks this is big. This is a big deal for Macon-Bibb County,” he added.
“We are excited to make Macon and Mercer University our home away from home during the Club World Cup,” LAFC Co-President & General Manager John Thorrington said. “We want to thank Mercer and the entire Bibb County community for your enthusiasm and support. We are looking forward to seeing you soon.”
And we can’t wait to welcome them to Central Georgia. LAFC’s first Club World Cup Game “kicks” off June 16th against the historic, UK-based Chelsea club.
Scroll down for more quotes from notable partners and players in this big move:
Macon Mayor Lester Miller
“It’s a great day to be in Macon-Bibb County especially when you’re announcing that Macon-Bibb County is taking its place on the world’s stage in a way in which we have never done before. It’s made even greater because we are here thanks to the efforts of our amazing partners working together toward the same goal, the same outcome and the betterment of our entire community.”
Mercer Deputy Athletics Director Daniel Tate
“Being selected as a training site for the FIFA Club World Cup is an incredible honor for Mercer University and the city of Macon. It’s a rare opportunity to welcome one of the world’s top clubs to our campus and showcase all that our university and community have to offer. We’re proud to be part of such a global event and excited for what this moment means for Middle Georgia.”
Gary Wheat, President/CEO of Visit Macon
“Visit Macon is excited to partner with Mercer University and Macon-Bibb County to serve as host and home for LA Football Club during the FIFA Club World Cup. We welcome the Club and its fans to Macon to showcase our destination to the world.”
Jay Markwalter, Statewide Tourism Director for the Georgia Department of Economic Development
“Gary Wheat and his team are always strategically driving awareness and visitation. Mayor Lester Miller’s dedication to tourism and destination development has been unmatched in his first four years. Mayor Miller has been recognized as a leader in visionary tourism related projects, including sports.”