World Cup organisers clash with Foxborough over $8m stadium security funding
World Cup 2026 organisers face a major venue dispute as the town of Foxborough demands an upfront $8m payment for security before licensing the Gillette Stadium for matches.
The Massachusetts venue is scheduled to host seven games during the North American tournament, including England’s Group L fixture against Ghana.
However, local officials are withholding the essential stadium operating license until tournament organisers guarantee funding for policing and public safety measures.
Boston Soccer 2026, the local host committee, and the Kraft Group have been locked in tense negotiations with town representatives.
Kraft Group and town clash over funding
Lawyers representing the host committee recently suggested all security costs would be covered within two days of receiving an invoice.
That promise was swiftly rejected by board members, who publicly disputed claims that a financial agreement had already been reached.
“Any such statement is categorically false.”
A town board statement subsequently clarified their unwavering stance on public safety.
“That such entities may have miscalculated the cost of hosting the World Cup is not a reason to compromise on event security. The Town cannot and will not finance the Kraft Group’s losses by sacrificing public safety.”
Licence depends on $8m payment
The 2026 tournament, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, represents the most expansive edition in the competition’s history.
The Kraft Group, headed by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, expressed deep frustration at the lack of a public hearing to resolve the impasse.
“When they had a liquidity issue, we solved it. When they asked for equipment, we supported it.”
A spokesperson for the stadium ownership group urged local authorities to outline a clear path forward.
“We are deeply disappointed that the town has seemingly reached a conclusion unilaterally without the platform of a public hearing… and would like to understand what the town requires at this stage to get to ‘yes.'”
Foxborough reportedly requires $8m (£6.3m) to cover the extensive policing costs associated with the influx of global supporters.
Board member Stephanie McGowan reiterated that the required paperwork will only be approved once the financial demands are officially met.
“If the money is there for us, we will issue the license. They are working hard on both sides.”
