Massachusetts Struggles With World Cup Funding Gaps

In only a few short months, more than 2 million people are expected to descend on Boston to witness select games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup take place in June and early July.

A state report estimates World Cup visitors could generate around $1 billion in spending, but total anticipated costs to host activities related to the FIFA World Cup may exceed $100 million. Federal funds could cover at most $46 million, but no additional funding sources have been identified.

While a $21 million federal grant is being allocated among Boston, Foxborough, and state police to counter malicious drone activity, the funding relies on a reimbursement model that creates administrative delays and raises questions about when funds actually transfer.

The Massachusetts Legislature has earmarked $10 million for infrastructure and services. Still, funds must flow through the tourism agency and be restricted to specific uses, amid uncertain revenue growth and potential federal policy changes.

Further complicating the matter, Boston 26, a private nonprofit led by figures tied to Kraft Sports & Entertainment, The New England Revolution, and Meet Boston, signed the FIFA contract to serve as host, prompting concerns about governance and accountability.

The Boston Globe noted that the report raises questions about how prepared the Boston region will be come summer.

“For example, the location of the official FIFA FanFest, the primary public viewing event, has not been selected and is a key component to the fan experience and celebration,” the report obtained by the Boston Globe states. “While the state does not have a role in committing to a location, it does have a role in planning to deliver a safe and secure environment for the selected location. Until the location is identified, planning, coordination, and preparation are limited, and projected costs may need to be updated once a location is finalized.”

State officials also don't know where teams will be staying, and public safety officials can't make any plans to protect venues that have not been confirmed.

In a statement made last fall, Massachusetts Governor Healey argued that state investments will pay off through tourism and economic activity resulting from the FIFA World Cup.

In light of the state of these preparations, the Boston Globe Editorial Board admitted that “the state has indeed made a considerable investment under difficult federal rules. Problem is, its private sector partners, who stand to benefit enormously from those World Cup crowds, need to pick up the slack and pick up the pace.”