Ever launch a MLS franchise without a coach, roster or stadium? In a city where sports go to die? We have.
And according to Sports Illustrated, ESPN and The NY Times, it was the most successful brand launch in professional sports history. We sold out every seat, every game, breaking the MLS attendance record. Twice. With higher average attendance than any team in the NBA, MLB or NHL, we not only created a team, we united a city.
Atlanta United FC
Having a healthy rivalry is crucial to any good game. So before our opening match against Orlando City FC, we bought a billboard directly across from Orlando City’s stadium to let them know we were coming.
Orlando Billboard Stunt
Less than 24 hours later it was ripped down, but not after gaining national attention. Safe to say the message was received.
Inspired from Atlanta’s railway history, Atlanta United wanted to form a tradition that could honor that rich heritage. Thus, the Golden Spike was born. Before each game, a player chosen by fans on Twitter, carries out the “Golden Spike” and drives it into the ground, serving as a great symbol of unity and reminder to the city’s origins.
For a limited time, founding members of Atlanta United FC were gifted a golden spike bottle opener. It blew up online and everyone was jealous, with fans resorting to Ebay to try to snag one.
