ATLANTA — On this Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026, Atlanta United has delivered a “love letter” to the city that transformed into a global sports icon three decades ago. In a star-studded event that blended nostalgia with futuristic ambition, the club officially unveiled its secondary jersey for the 2026 season: the “Spirit of ’96” kit.
The reveal, which took place at the iconic Delta Flight Museum, was more than just a jersey launch. It was a celebration of Atlanta’s identity. As the city prepares to host eight matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer, the new kit serves as a bridge between the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games and the city’s next big moment on the world stage.
The Colors of Victory and the Canopy
The design of the “Spirit of ’96” is a vibrant departure from the club’s traditional “Five Stripes” home look. The base of the jersey is a clean, sophisticated cream, which provides a canvas for the bold green and gold accents that define the Olympic legacy.
The most striking feature is the green vertical sash running down the front. This deep green is a double tribute: it honors the ribbons used for the 1996 Olympic medals and symbolizes the lush tree canopy that covers the “City in a Forest.” Within the sash, eagle-eyed fans will notice a subtle tapestry of multicolored leaves, representing the international diversity of the people who call Atlanta home.
The team’s crest has also received a golden makeover. Finished in a metallic gold, the badge is styled to resemble an Olympic gold medal, positioned directly over the heart.
Sarah Kate Noftsinger, Atlanta United Vice President and Chief Business Officer, spoke passionately about the level of detail involved in the project.
“I think this is probably the most beautiful, most detailed kit that we’ve ever put out,” Noftsinger said during the launch. “If you love Atlanta, you love the Olympics, you love soccer, you love Atlanta United. There’s so much symbolism to it that it’s going to transcend sport and be more of a culture lifestyle piece.”
Stitched with History
For the true “kit nerds,” the jersey is filled with “Easter eggs” that celebrate the 30-year journey from the Olympics to the World Cup. Stitched inside the neckline in golden Roman numerals are MCMXCVI (1996) and MMXXVI (2026). This simple detail highlights the connectivity of Atlanta’s most defining sporting moments.
On the back of the neck, the city’s initials, ATL, are framed by a laurel wreath, the ancient symbol of victory and athletic excellence. The three stripes on the shoulders and the trim on the sleeves are finished in gold, ensuring the kit looks as good on the streets of Little Five Points as it does on the pitch at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
A Homecoming for a Hero
Adding to the excitement of the launch was the presence of a fan favorite. Miguel Almirón, who made a sensational return to the club in 2025, was one of the lead models for the new kit. Seeing “Miggy” back in the colors of Atlanta, sporting a jersey that honors the city’s history, was an emotional moment for the “17s” (the club’s supporters).
For veteran players like former goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who attended the event, the kit serves as a reminder of the weight of the jersey. Guzan, who has represented the U.S. in both the Olympics and the World Cup, shared his perspective on the emotional connection athletes feel toward such historic designs.
“You see how excited athletes get when they get to put that on,” Guzan noted. “Regardless of what it looks like… when you see that pride as an athlete, it reminds you why you compete, why you sacrifice.”
Bridging the 30-Year Gap
The timing of the “Spirit of ’96” kit is intentional. Thirty years ago, the Centennial Olympics put Atlanta on the map as a “global sports town.” Today, that reputation is being tested again as the world prepares to descend on the city for the biggest World Cup in history.
The event featured appearances by Olympic legends, including Morehouse College alumnus and gold medalist Edwin Moses. He reflected on how the international energy of the ’96 Games laid the groundwork for the diverse, soccer-loving city Atlanta has become.
“All you have to do is look at MARTA,” Moses said. “People coming up from all over the place. All over the world, all types of languages. It’s great that Atlanta has that kind of crowd.”
Looking Ahead to 2026
While the primary kit for 2026 remains the “The Connector,” the “Spirit of ’96” will serve as the club’s Community Kit. It is expected to make its official on-field debut on March 21 when Atlanta United hosts D.C. United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
As the “Spirit of ’96” hits shelves across the city this Valentine’s Day, it stands as a reminder that Atlanta’s best days are often a reflection of its boldest history. Whether you’re an OG who remembers the torch being lit or a new fan ready for the World Cup, this kit is a badge of honor for the city that refuses to be overlooked.
As Noftsinger told the crowd:
“Everybody overlooks us, but big moments continue to be born here.”
