Foxborough Refuses to Issue World Cup License Over $7.8M Security Funding Gap

A new development in Boston's hosting of the FIFA World Cup could scuttle plans for the event.

NBC 10 NEWS WJAR has reported that FIFA and the town of Foxborough are in dispute over security funding for the World Cup matches.

Foxborough Select Board Chair Bill Yukna told the news outlet that the World Cup is an international event, not a Foxborough-funded one, and the town should not bear security costs for it.

During a select board meeting, town leaders said Foxborough cannot cover the approximately $7.8 million in security costs for the matches. 

"We're not in a position to put forward $7.8 million upfront and hope to get reimbursed," said Paige Duncan, Foxborough's town manager, in comments shared with NBC 10.

Officials warn that without adequate funding, Foxborough may be unable to issue the required licenses for the FIFA World Cup, jeopardizing the event. The licensing deadline to secure permissions for the matches is March 17.

As of Thursday, Feb. 12, the FIFA World Cup Boston Host Committee and the Kraft Group have not responded to requests for comment on the matter.

Amid this dispute, NBC 10 reported that Gillette Stadium in Foxborough has already begun to install the natural grass field needed for the World Cup matches.