Foxboro, FIFA Reach Deal on World Cup Funding

Agreement allows Gillette Stadium to host 7 matches during 2026 tournament

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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The Foxboro Select Board, the Kraft Sports Group, and the Boston Host Committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have reached an agreement that will allow the tournament to be held at Gillette Stadium this summer. The deal resolves a dispute over who would cover the $7.8 million in security costs needed to safely host the games.

Why it matters

The 2026 World Cup is a major global sporting event that will bring significant attention and economic activity to the Boston region. Securing Gillette Stadium as a host venue was crucial, but the dispute over security costs threatened to derail those plans until this agreement was reached.

The details

Under the deal, the Boston Host Committee (Boston 26) and the Kraft Sports Group will pay the full $7.8 million in security costs upfront, ensuring the town of Foxboro does not incur any financial burden. Boston 26 will also provide expenditure advancements to fund the necessary police and fire department resources to ensure public safety during the tournament.

  • The agreement was reached on March 12, 2026.
  • The Foxboro Select Board is scheduled to formally approve Boston 26's entertainment license on March 17, 2026.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup matches at Gillette Stadium are scheduled for June and July 2026.

The players

Foxboro Select Board

The local government body that oversees the town of Foxboro, Massachusetts, where Gillette Stadium is located.

Kraft Sports Group

The company that owns and operates Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots.

Boston Host Committee (Boston 26)

The nonprofit organization responsible for coordinating Boston's hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches.

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What’s next

The Foxboro Select Board is scheduled to formally approve Boston 26's entertainment license for the World Cup matches on March 17, 2026.

The takeaway

This agreement demonstrates the collaborative effort required to host a major global sporting event like the World Cup, with local governments, event organizers, and stadium owners working together to address concerns and ensure a successful and safe tournament for the community.