Auckland City FC’s stay in Chattanooga could lead to international team visit during 2026 World Cup

Auckland City Football Club / Auckland City Football Club via Facebook

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)-  A New Zealand soccer team will call Chattanooga home for a part of this summer.

The Scenic City will be the base host camp city for Auckland City FC as they compete in this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.

The expanded tournament features 32 of the best soccer teams around the world as the U.S. prepares to host next year’s FIFA World Cup.

The Kiwi squad earned a spot through winning their continental tournament in Oceania.

While none of their matches will be here in Chattanooga, they will stay at The Read House and practice at Baylor School.

Chattanooga had to go through FIFA’s application process to become a base camp, and hope it will lead Chattanooga being part of next year’s festivities.

“We’re certainly excited about that. We think leading up with this will certainly elevate our status as we try to recruit a World Cup team next year as a host city location for that as well.,” said Chattanooga Tourism Company CEO Barry White.

Their nearest match will be on June 24th in Nashville against Argentine squad Boca Juniors.

They will arrive in Chattanooga on June 11-th, and could stay for over a month depending on their success in the tournament.