AAA and MADD have launched a five-year initiative to reduce impaired-driving fatalities by 20% by 2030. Designed by Freepik

 

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - As the world’s top soccer teams compete across North and Central America this summer, millions of fans will travel to matches and gather for watch parties. AAA, MADD, and Waymo are teaming up to ensure celebrations remain safe, encouraging fans to make a game plan for a safe ride before kickoff, because getting everyone home safely is the ultimate win.

“Nearly one-third of all impaired-driving traffic fatalities occur during the summer months. Major sporting events, like the World Cup, can further contribute to that risk as fans gather at stadiums, bars and watch parties across the country,” said Doug Johnson, spokesperson for AAA Mountain West Group. “Impaired driving is 100% preventable, and choosing a safe ride home is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and others.”

Getting everyone to their destination is a shared goal for AAA and MADD, one that stretches beyond this summer's games. AAA and MADD have launched a five-year initiative to reduce impaired-driving fatalities by 20% by 2030. By combining education, advocacy and innovative solutions, AAA and MADD are working to save lives.

“The world’s biggest soccer matches are a time to celebrate, but every fan needs a safe way home,” said Stacey D. Stewart, CEO of MADD. “We’re grateful to AAA for its leadership in road safety and to Waymo for making discount codes available to help fans make a plan to never drive impaired. Together we can prevent impaired driving, protect our communities and save lives.”

To help fans secure a safe ride home, Waymo is offering a $5 off ride discount for the first 2,500 redemptions with the code “GOAL2026”. The discount will be valid from June 11 through July 19, 2026 in all Waymo owned and operated markets including Phoenix and San Francisco, helping make the safe choice the easy choice for fans heading to matches, watch parties and celebrations.

“Soccer has a unique ability to bring people together, whether they're cheering from the stands or celebrating with friends at a watch party,” said Heather Aijian, Waymo's head of public affairs. “Waymo is proud to partner with AAA and MADD to help fans make safe transportation choices and get home safely after the match. By making sober rides more accessible, we can help keep the focus on the excitement of the game.”

Nearly 12,000 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in the United States in 2024. Impaired driving continues to impact families and communities across the country, but it is a challenge we can overcome together. Every fan has a role to play by planning ahead, choosing a safe ride and encouraging friends to do the same. Working as a team, we can save lives and help ensure the only thing fans remember about the night is the excitement of the match.