AT&T's Summer of Soccer: A Celebration of Community and Sport in Charlotte
On July 23, 2026, AT&T Inc. unveiled an exciting press release announcing its pivotal role in the upcoming Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star Week in Charlotte, North Carolina. As the Official Wireless and Wireline Provider of MLS, AT&T is set to create a series of unforgettable experiences, underscoring its long-standing commitment to soccer in North America.
1. A Growing Passion for Soccer
Soccer's popularity has surged across North America, and AT&T is at the forefront of this movement. With 17 years of partnership with MLS, the company is dedicated to nurturing the sport both on and off the field. Sabina Ahmed, Assistant Vice President of Media and Sponsorships at AT&T, remarked, “Soccer has the unique ability to bring communities together through a shared passion. As excitement for the sport continues to build, MLS All-Star Week is an opportunity to celebrate the players, fans, and local communities who make soccer culture so special. We're proud to be part of that story.”
2. Events and Engagement Opportunities
The festivities kick off on July 25-26, 2026, with the MLS Soccer Celebration, a free fan festival at Romare Bearden Park. Fans can engage in the AT&T Shooting Challenge, an interactive experience featuring real-time performance tracking and personalized digital highlights inspired by the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge.
The event will also boast appearances by soccer legends, including Landon Donovan, Charlotte FC midfielder Brandt Bronico, and Tim Ream, captain of the U.S. Men's National Team and defender for Charlotte FC. These appearances are set to enhance the fan experience and foster deeper connections within the soccer community.
On July 27, fans are invited to the AT&T Promenade retail store on W.T. Harris Blvd from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to meet Charlotte FC captain Ashley Westwood. Attendees will also have the chance to earn Fanatics FanCash for use on their favorite MLS merchandise, while supplies last.
3. Community Commitment
Demonstrating its commitment to the Charlotte community, AT&T will donate $25,000 to the Katie Blessing Center, a local organization that supports community initiatives. This contribution reflects AT&T's dedication to creating a positive impact beyond the excitement of match days.
4. MLS All-Star Skills Challenge
Highlighting the week will be the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T on July 28 at Truist Field, where top players from MLS will go head-to-head against their counterparts from LIGA MX. AT&T will sponsor both the All-Star Shooting Challenge and the MLS vs. LIGA MX Relay Challenge, showcasing the elite talent and competitive spirit that drive the sport's growth.
Additionally, 20,000 co-branded AT&T and MLS shirts will be distributed at the MLS All-Star Game presented by Chime, featuring the league’s "Thanks World, We'll Take It From Here" campaign message.
5. Staying Connected with AT&T
With the integration of AT&T's wireless and fiber networks, including Turbo Live by AT&T, fans will have the opportunity to stay connected throughout MLS All-Star Week. Whether posting content, replaying highlights, or following the action in real-time, AT&T aims to enhance the overall fan experience.
6. A Long-Term Vision
Since 2009, AT&T has been a key player in advancing the sport of soccer in North America. Its commitment has encompassed world-class fan experiences, significant community investments, and the technology that connects millions of fans. As soccer continues to grow in popularity, AT&T remains enthusiastic about its role in bringing fans closer to every moment of the game.
With a focus on community engagement and the celebration of soccer culture, AT&T's Summer of Soccer in Charlotte promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans and players alike. This initiative exemplifies how corporations can play a vital role in fostering community spirit and supporting the growth of sports.
