Foxboro Threatens to Block World Cup Games Over Security Costs

In Foxboro, Massachusetts, local officials are contemplating a hardline stance regarding the seven World Cup matches planned for Gillette Stadium in 2026. They’re demanding clarity on the source of over $7 million in security funding before granting the necessary entertainment license.

To date, the city hasn’t signed off on this license, and during a recent Town Board of Selectmen meeting, leaders expressed their hesitation. They made it clear: without solid answers, there will be no license issued.

This situation arises since Kraft Group is leasing the stadium to FIFA, necessitating an agreement between the town and the event organizers. Without the entertainment license, their temporary landlord-tenant arrangement remains in limbo.

“We won’t be moving forward with issuing this license until everything is sorted out,” stated Stephanie McGowan, vice chair of the Select Board. She countered skepticism by affirming that the board is resolute in its decision.

The board is particularly concerned about who will shoulder the financial burden of security at an event of this scale, especially since Gillette Stadium will be branded as “Boston Stadium” for the tournament. Concerns about funding were echoed by board member Mark Elfman, who candidly expressed confusion about where the funds would originate from during discussions with the Host Committee and FIFA representatives.

Elfman remarked, “I honestly didn’t expect you all not to have the money ready.” His disbelief was shared among local leaders, who are wary about the financial implications of such a significant event.

The town estimates that covering security costs—amounting to $7.8 million for a 39-day period—would be comparable to hosting seven Super Bowls. Previous reports indicated the city would receive answers regarding financing by January 30, but that has yet to materialize, prompting further frustration.

The Boston Host Committee mentioned potential grants to cover security expenses, but they are currently awaiting funding from federal sources, including a task force in collaboration with FEMA. They stated ongoing discussions were underway, albeit with no definite timeline on the funding arrival.

A representative from the Host Committee has not yet responded to inquiries for further information.

The selection committee plans to reconvene on March 3, with a firm deadline for granting the license set for March 17. In the meantime, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her belief that the issues would be resolved, though the comments from the Select Board suggest a more uncertain outlook.

Elfman’s comments encapsulated the confusion: “You’re here saying, ‘I don’t know where this money is coming from.’ Yet, townspeople are questioning why a massive organization like FIFA and Kraft can’t make this work effectively. It’s surprising that we’re reliant on federal assistance at this stage.”