Gillette Stadium selected to host FIFA World Cup 2026

FIFA announced Thursday evening that Boston is one of the cities selected to host FIFA World Cup 2026, the first men’s World Cup contender in North America since 1994.

The cities officially selected to host World Cup matches in the U.S. are: New York/New Jersey (MetLife Stadium), Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium), Dallas (AT&T Stadium), San Francisco Bay Area (Levi’s Stadium), Miami (Hard Rock Stadium), Atlanta (Mercedes-Benz Stadium), Seattle (Lumen Field), Houston (NRG Stadium), Philadelphia (Lincoln Financial Field), Kansas City (Arrowhead Stadium) and Boston (Gillette Stadium), Mexico, ESPN reported.

Gillette Stadium among 23 venues bidding to host World Cup matches in 2026

Each host city is projected to host four to six matches over the course of the tournament.

Boston will also host fan fests throughout the city, providing fans with or without match tickets the opportunity to engage and enjoy a festival atmosphere with fans from around the world.

The Boston Consulting Group’s research has estimated that Boston can expect an estimated 450,000 visitors hailing from Europe, South America and across the globe, with a projected net economic impact of up to $500 million.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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