'Once a volunteer, always a volunteer': the FIFA World Cup 2026™ story of Paula Pontes

Paula Rodrigues Pontes, a Spanish language teacher from Atlanta, Georgia, is an engagement volunteer at the FIFA World Cup 2026™, having begun her volunteer journey at the FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013™. Originally from Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Pontes hopes to volunteer again when the FIFA Women's World Cup Brazil 2027™ comes to her hometown. Pontes was moved to tears after being surprised with VIP passes and tunnel lounge access for a Group Stage match at Atlanta Stadium.