By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | June 11, 2026
As Atlanta prepares to welcome soccer fans from around the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, MARTA has partnered with Atlanta music icon Big Boi to encourage residents and visitors to use public transit during the global event.
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority announced Wednesday the launch of its “Let MARTA Drive” campaign, featuring the Grammy Award-winning artist, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee.
MARTA officials say the campaign is designed to encourage riders to use the transit system to attend World Cup matches, fan festivals, concerts, and other events throughout downtown Atlanta while promoting the agency’s Ride with Respect initiative.
As one-half of the legendary hip-hop duo OutKast, Big Boi has helped shape Atlanta’s cultural identity and international reputation. MARTA leaders say his deep roots in the city make him a natural choice to help welcome visitors arriving from across the globe.
“Big Boi’s music is deeply embedded in the culture of Atlanta, making him the perfect person to help us welcome soccer fans from around the globe,” said MARTA Interim General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt. “We look forward to bringing his unmistakable voice directly to our riders through exclusive station announcements and digital content. This partnership is an exciting way to showcase our world-class transit network while reminding everyone to ride safely and with respect.”
Through the campaign, Big Boi will encourage riders to take MARTA to major events across downtown Atlanta, helping reduce traffic congestion and parking challenges while creating a more convenient travel experience.
“Atlanta has always been a city that moves people and sets trends,” Big Boi said. “When the world comes here, I want everyone to feel that energy without the stress. MARTA makes it easy to get downtown, to the events, and everywhere in between. I’m proud to be part of what keeps Atlanta moving and shows the world how we do it.”
Atlanta is scheduled to host multiple FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and related events beginning June 15. Officials anticipate increased demand on transportation systems as fans travel between matches, fan festivals, concerts, hotels, restaurants, and attractions throughout the city.
The campaign also highlights MARTA’s Ride with Respect initiative, which encourages passengers to treat fellow riders, MARTA employees, and public spaces with courtesy and consideration.
For longtime Atlantans, the partnership brings together two institutions closely associated with the city. MARTA has served as the region’s transit backbone for decades, while Big Boi and OutKast helped elevate Atlanta’s influence on music and popular culture around the world.
MARTA is also encouraging riders to take advantage of its Rider Tools platform, which provides trip planning assistance, real-time train and bus tracking, service alerts, route information, and accessibility resources.
With the world’s largest sporting event set to arrive in Atlanta next week, MARTA leaders hope visitors and residents alike will choose transit as they travel throughout the city.
For more information about MARTA services and rider resources, visit MARTA’s website.
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