The Foxborough Select Board, which governs the town hosting seven World Cup matches this summer, has raised concerns over $7.8 million in unpaid security costs. The board, which issues licenses for Gillette Stadium, warned it may deny the license if the funding is not secured. The money was due from the US government and the Boston World Cup planning committee but has not arrived, partly due to the federal government shutdown affecting FEMA grants.
Board members expressed frustration at a Tuesday meeting, noting that Fifa and Boston 2026 representatives were absent. The board chair, Bill Yukna, said, 'I don’t see anyone from Boston 2026 or Fifa here.' The shortfall represents a significant burden for Foxborough, a town of 18,000 residents, equating to roughly $1,000 per household or 10% of the annual budget.
The Kraft family, owners of the New England Patriots, typically cover security for stadium events, but World Cup matches fall outside their agreement. Fifa has deferred to Boston and the Krafts, while Boston’s host committee acknowledges contractual obligations but has not provided a solution. The board insists it does not want to deny the license but will if necessary.
Despite the impasse, observers believe the matches will proceed given the financial stakes. The board’s stance highlights the tension between local governance and global sporting bodies like Fifa, which is accustomed to having its demands met.
