
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Massachusetts is preparing to host part of the global tournament. Gillette Stadium, temporarily renamed “Boston Stadium” for the event, will host seven matches, including two knockout rounds and a quarterfinal, as per NBC Boston.
Governor Maura Healey called the opportunity a major milestone for the state. “This is the greatest sports city in America, the greatest sports city in the world,” she said in a statement to WCVB. The state is coordinating with city officials to manage the large-scale event, which is expected to bring in more than $1 billion in economic impact.
Preparations are underway across the region, including early hotel bookings and event planning. A countdown clock has been installed in Boston, marking the time until the first match on June 13, 2026. According to WCVB, Meredith Sheridan said, "We look at this as sort of, waves of excitement happening from now until the day the first match, the first ball is kicked."
Fans, including Jason Herbeck, have shared their anticipation, with many recalling past tournaments. In an interview with NBC Boston, Governor Healey said, “It's going to be amazing, this place is going to go nuts!”
Organizers such as Martha Sheridan, President and CEO of Meet Boston, and Mike Loynd, CEO of FIFA World Cup Boston 2026, are preparing for an estimated 450,000 ticket holders and millions of event participants. Planning includes a fan festival, transportation coordination, security measures, and a volunteer effort expected to recruit around 3,000 people for the Boston events.
Massachusetts officials anticipate around one million visitors during the tournament. Governor Healey, along with Boston 2026 and Meet Boston, continues to work on preparations to ensure the state is ready for the international spotlight.