Funding Delay Threatens 2026 World Cup Events in Massachusetts

FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts — With less than a year to go before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, organizers are expressing concern about funding. Massachusetts officials are still waiting on $20 million in state funding that is crucial for the event.

Boston 26, the organization responsible for planning celebrations in the state, is led by CEO Mike Loynd. He noted that without the promised financial support, major fan events could be significantly scaled back. “It certainly would be down scaled, if not very limited, if we didn’t have the funding from the state,” Loynd said.

Governor Maura Healey indicated that the funding request has been submitted to lawmakers. “I put forward a request for funding. It’s currently with the legislature now,” she stated.

Loynd emphasized the financial benefits of investing in the event, explaining that any money spent could potentially yield a return of five to ten times the initial investment. “For us, yeah, it’s about maximizing this opportunity,” he added.

Rhode Island is also preparing for an influx of visitors during the tournament. Liz Tanner, executive director of Ocean State 2026, expects many attendees will choose to stay in Rhode Island, similar to past events. “What we expect are about 40% of the attendees usually stay in Rhode Island for a Pats game, so we expect something similar to that,” Tanner said.

As the tournament approaches, Tanner’s organization is working diligently to ensure that facilities and services are ready. She mentioned the possibility of seeking state funding as well, noting, “The legislature is out of session right now, but I do expect there will be an ask at some point in the beginning of the year.”

Despite the differences in approach, both Massachusetts and Rhode Island are focused on making the World Cup a success. Tanner said, “From a Massachusetts perspective, the event is in their state, and they’re having a very large festival in one location in Boston, versus here in Rhode Island, we’re spreading things out across a variety of parts of the state.” She concluded, stating, “For us, it’s all about hospitality, lodging, making sure we keep them busy.”

Efforts to reach state Representatives Michael Chaisson and Paul Feeney, who represent Foxborough, for comments yielded no immediate response.