The Golden Spike Tradition -
The Golden Spike Tradition - Arthur Blank

On Matchday, an Atlanta tradition is born.

90 minutes before Atlanta United take the field, the players arrive at Mercedes-Benz Stadium to sign the Golden Spike, followed by the club's faithful supporters (everyone is invited to sign it). Then, just minutes before the players walk out for kickoff, a select number of Atlanta United supporters march and carry the Golden Spike through the supporters section and to the platform fronting it. Join the supporters, join the movement, this is a relic signed by all, as a symbol of unity and strength.

The Golden Spike is then hammered into the railroad platform by a chosen ATLien with the stadium chanting…. A-T-L with every strike, a sound ringing true to our hearts.

After the final whistle, a smaller Golden Spike is awarded to a player, an honor voted on by the fans (via our app). In addition, he is also given one to keep as reminder of his performance, and the experience with the fans that he can cherish forever.

Be early, stay late, and be part of a culture driven by tradition and rooted in the ATL. Find out who's had the honor of hitting the Spike in each of our home matches below!

Spike Hitter: David Harbour

February 22, 2025 vs CF Montréal

Better known in recent years for his role as Hopper on the Netflix hit series 'Stranger Things' and the upcoming Marvel movie Thunderbolts*, actor David Harbour hit the Golden Spike prior to our 2025 Home Opener.

Spike Hitters: Khori Louis, Mia Tuaniga and Merritt Beason from the Atlanta Vibe

March 8, 2025 vs New York Red Bulls

Khori Louis, Mia Tuaniga and Merritt Beason, players from the professional volleyball team the Atlanta Vibe hit the Golden Spike during the celebration of International Women's Day, and Women's and Girls in Sports, prior to the match vs New York Red Bulls.

Spike Hitter: Linda Cardellini

March 16, 2025 vs Inter Miami CF

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Better known in recent years for her roles in Dead to Me, Scooby Doo, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, actress Linda Cardellini hit the Golden Spike ahead of our match vs Inter Miami.

Spike Hitters: Zaytoven

March 25, 2025 vs New York City FC

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Rapper Zaytoven hit the Golden Spike ahead of our match vs New York City FC.

Spike Hitter: Trinidad James

April 4, 2025 vs FC Dallas

Trinidadian-American rapper, songwriter and music video director, Trinidad James, hit the Golden Spike ahead of our match vs FC Dallas.

Click below to find out who hit The Golden Spike in 2024.

Click below to find out who else has hit The Golden Spike in previous years!