TAL March_April ao 4.21 Final Volume 25 No. 7 | Page 28

IN THE PROFESSION

Soccer and AI

LOUIS R. COHAN Cohan & Levy lcohan @ cohanlevy. com
Everything I know about soccer, I learned from Ted Lasso. But, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is upon us, and it is exciting. I am digging in to learn more about the sport. Is there really any surprise that the Atlanta Legal Community is right in the thick of it? Answer: Not a surprise.
So, the editors said I have to include soccer in this article. I like writing this column, so I will obey. But I also want to write about some AI issues that you might find helpful and important. So, the article will address both topics.
First, soccer.
King & Spalding and Justin King are assisting the host committee to develop terms for the tournament, and in other respects.
Foley & Lardner are registered to lobby on behalf of the host committee. The firm’ s efforts include federal funding for security, emergency services, and other host needs.
Hogan Lovells, a global firm with an Atlanta presence is also assisting the Host Committee with funding for security and infrastructure.
Troutman Pepper Locke, including Austin Padgett are advising on intellectual property issues including brand protection, and trademark law for major events.
Lawyers all over Georgia are assisting with real estate issues, including leasing, hotel law, and more. The hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, air travel and entertainment are expecting an enormous impact.
It is estimated that the FIFA World Cup might generate in excess of $ 1 billion in total economic activity for Atlanta. We are expecting as many as 300,000 visitors. Eight matches are scheduled to take place at Mercedes
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