Crisis Averted as Foxborough Unanimously Approves License for Seven World Cup Games
The looming threat that the seven FIFA Men's World Cup matches at Gillette Stadium would be cancelled has ended following a unanimous vote by the town of Foxborough to issue an entertainment license. After months and weeks of intense negotiations over cost concerns, Boston's host committee secured approval on Tuesday night after guaranteeing financial security for the venue operator. This decisive action confirms that all scheduled games in June and July will proceed as planned without further jeopardy facing the event at this location.
Key Points
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1The Foxborough Select Board has unanimously approved an entertainment license for the seven FIFA World Cup games to be held at Gillette Stadium.
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2This decision resolves a crisis that threatened to exclude Boston as the host city due to long-standing cost concerns and negotiations with town leaders.
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3Boston's Host Committee guaranteed funding security, which was required before Foxborough officials could grant permission for events on private property.
Developments
The Foxborough Select Board unanimously approved licenses for seven FIFA World Cup games after Boston Soccer 2026 guaranteed covering all security costs to avoid financial burden on the towns. This agreement includes advance funding from Kraft Sports + Entertainment, which pledged to pay any remaining expenses if federal government grants are delayed due to current budget lapses.