A Historic Return of the FIFA World Cup to Boston
After more than three decades, the FIFA World Cup is making a return to the United States, with one of the most iconic sporting cities in the country, Boston, playing host. While the event won’t be held directly in Boston, it will take place just 30 miles south in the town of Foxborough at Gillette Stadium. This marks the first time since 1994 that the stadium has hosted World Cup matches, when the now-demolished Foxboro Stadium was the venue for Italy’s 2-1 victory over Spain in the quarter-finals.
Boston and its surrounding area have a rich history with the World Cup. The city previously hosted matches during the Women’s World Cup in 1999 and 2003, with the latter taking place at the current Gillette Stadium, which opened in 2002 and is home to the NFL’s New England Patriots.
World Cup Fixtures in Boston
Boston will play host to seven matches at Gillette Stadium, which will be renamed Boston Stadium for the duration of the tournament. The fixtures include teams such as England, France, Scotland, Morocco, Ghana, Norway, Iraq, and Haiti, with several high-profile group-stage games set to take place before the knockout rounds begin.
Key match dates include:
- 13 June – Group C: Haiti vs Scotland
- 16 June – Group I: Iraq vs Norway
- 19 June – Group C: Scotland vs Morocco
- 23 June – Group L: England vs Ghana
- 26 June – Group I: Norway vs France
- 29 June: Round of 32 match
- 9 July: Quarter-final
Boston’s Sporting Culture
As one of the most storied sports cities in the United States, Boston has long been defined by its championship-winning teams and passionate fan base. The Gillette Stadium in Foxborough is home to the NFL’s New England Patriots and the MLS team New England Revolution. Meanwhile, the city itself hosts the MLB’s Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park, the NBA’s Boston Celtics, and the NHL’s Boston Bruins at TD Garden.
The city also plays host to major annual events, including the Boston Marathon, one of the world’s most prestigious road races.
Landmarks and Places to See
Boston is steeped in American history, as Massachusetts was one of the original 13 colonies. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Boston Tea Party ships, the Old North Church, and Paul Revere’s house. Sports venues like Fenway Park and TD Garden are also popular attractions.
Food Scene in Boston
Boston offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes. The North End is known for its Italian cuisine, while seafood is a staple, particularly in areas near the wharf and Boston Harbor. Lobster rolls and clam chowder are must-try dishes. Additionally, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants located in Boston, Cambridge, and nearby cities.
Fan Zones
Official FIFA Fan Festival events will take place from 12 to 27 June at Boston City Hall Plaza, the heart of downtown. High Street Place will transform into Boston’s House of Soccer, featuring a giant indoor screen for fans to watch World Cup action between 11 June and 19 July. Free watch parties will also be held in the city of Revere starting on 12 June for the USA vs. Paraguay game and on various dates throughout the tournament.
Transportation Options
For those traveling from Boston to Foxborough, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (the “T”) has set train prices at $80 round trip. An express bus option is also available, departing from various Boston-area locations at a cost of $95 round trip.
Stadium Tips
Tailgating will be permitted prior to matches, but the available space will be significantly reduced compared to NFL games. While there are about 20,000 parking spots for Patriots games, only around 5,000 will be available for public use during the World Cup.
