MBTA Might Get Help From Congress for World Cup Transportation Funding

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is only months away, and the MBTA is hopeful it will receive some financial support from Congress to help with transportation for the big event.

Last week, the U.S. House approved more than $100 million in a consolidated spending bill to help transit agencies cover World Cup planning, capital, and operating costs, with the MBTA potentially receiving around $8.3 million.

“The success of our World Cup transit efforts relies on securing federal support for operational expenses,” MBTA general manager and interim MassDOT secretary Phillip Eng said in a statement shared with the Boston Globe. “Ensuring we have the drivers, staff, and frequency required to move thousands of fans safely per match day is our top priority.”

Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas said the $100 million investment would help fans reach matches safely and could strengthen the nation's transit systems for years to come.

The MBTA has not publicly detailed how the World Cup funds will be spent. As of Monday, Jan. 26, the bill had not yet cleared the U.S. Senate.

Boston will host seven World Cup games at Gillette Stadium in June and July. The T has been accelerating its work to revamp the Foxboro Station to accommodate anticipated increases in ridership during game days. According to the agency, the improvements, which include expanded and elevated train platforms, new ramps, and other adjustments, will permit the MBTA to move approximately 20,000 passengers per match.

The state attorney general's office reported that before the renovation, the T typically transports approximately 4,000 spectators to a New England Patriots game via the commuter rail.

Meanwhile, Beacon Hill has also been setting aside funds to support the MBTA's World Cup preparations. Last November, the Legislature established a $10 million state transportation fund, with private matching requirements, to cover transportation, public safety, and related costs.

Outside of transportation, several aspects of Boston's World Cup planning remain up in the air at this point, according to a report published last month by the state. For example, it's not clear where the city will host the FIFA Fan Festival, the main venue for public match screenings and World Cup activities. No decision has been made on where visiting teams will stay or practice.