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Boston World Cup Host Committee Warns Plans at Risk as Legislature Weighs $20 Million Request

Conference negotiators this week will decide on funding organizers call essential for transit contingencies plus major fan programming.

Overview

  • The Massachusetts House put $10 million in its supplemental budget as a starting marker, while the Senate did not include the $20 million request after previously steering $5 million to MassDOT for transit.
  • Boston 26 says a shortfall could scrap backup buses if commuter rail falters, scale back FanFest events, and force a leaner host-committee operation with cuts to volunteer and traveler communications.
  • Governor Maura Healey supports the full $20 million, saying the investment would benefit the state, and her office continues pressing lawmakers.
  • The nonprofit host committee receives no FIFA operating funds and says a $46.6 million federal allocation is restricted to security, leaving state support and corporate sponsorships to cover operations and venue requirements.
  • Organizers cite larger state commitments in other host regions and project more than $1 billion in economic impact as lawmakers weigh the request with seven matches slated for Gillette Stadium next summer.