Crews training for World Cup at Centennial Park in downtown Atlanta

First responders training in downtown Atlanta

Atlanta police officers, fire department personnel and others are training in downtown Atlanta today in advance of FIFA World Cup coming to Atlanta. 

ATLANTA - Atlanta police, fire and emergency crews carried out a large-scale mass casualty training exercise at Centennial Olympic Park as the city prepares for upcoming World Cup events.

What we know:

More than 150 first responders, including Atlanta Police officers, firefighters and EMTs, took part in the drill on Monday morning, which simulated a scenario involving multiple injured victims across the park.

During the exercise, officers moved in to locate and neutralize a simulated suspect while additional teams secured the scene and assessed victims before fire and medical crews began triage.

What they're saying:

Officials said the training is part of ongoing preparations for the World Cup FanFest expected to bring thousands of visitors to downtown Atlanta.

Leaders say the drills, which have been conducted for years, are designed to improve coordination between agencies and ensure the city is ready to respond quickly in an emergency.

Atlanta Police hold mass casualty drill ahead of World Cup

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just weeks away, Atlanta public safety agencies are intensifying their preparations for the global stage. On Monday morning, the Atlanta Police Department, Atlanta Fire Rescue, and Grady EMS conducted a large-scale mass casualty training exercise at Centennial Olympic Park. The park is expected to be a primary "Fan Zone" during the tournament, hosting tens of thousands of visitors daily. Today's simulation was designed to test the rapid response capabilities of first responders in a high-density, outdoor environment.