Atlanta United and the city's future NWSL franchise have hired Mauricio Culebro as president of soccer, marking a major leadership change for both clubs. Culebro comes from Tigres UANL in Mexico, where he served as president overseeing men's and women's programs for five years. He also held the role of chief operating officer for the Mexican Football Federation.

Culebro will report to AMBSE CEO Rich McKay and work alongside Atlanta United's existing leadership team, including sporting director Chris Henderson. The hire represents a strategic move by Arthur Blank's organization to bring international soccer expertise to MLS and the NWSL. Culebro's background includes planning for 2026 FIFA World Cup host cities while with the Mexican federation.

Blank acknowledged Culebro's unfamiliarity with MLS and NWSL but emphasized his proven track record in building successful global soccer clubs. The new president will oversee Atlanta United's return to competitive form while launching the NWSL expansion team set to debut in 2028. Culebro expressed enthusiasm about joining AMBSE's leadership team and building projects that reflect Atlanta's passion and energy.