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Massachusetts: Hosting The FIFA World Cup Semifinals

We are still over two years away from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the excitement is already building. Over the weekend it was announced that Massachusetts will be hosting…

Lionel Messi of Argentina looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Argentina and Paraguay at Estadio Más Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on October 12, 2023 in Buenos Aires
Daniel Jayo/Getty Images

We are still over two years away from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the excitement is already building. Over the weekend it was announced that Massachusetts will be hosting the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup 26. Furthermore, the New England destination will be under the Boston city label.

Specifically, seven matches will be held at the home of the New England Patriots, Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. State Governor, Maura Haley issued a statement saying, “Massachusetts is thrilled to welcome the many thousands of fans and visitors from around the world to our great state in the summer of 2026 for this truly unforgettable event. We are eager for this chance to shine the global spotlight on our local communities and incredible hospitality and entertainment industries.”

Between June 13 and July 9, of 2026, up to 14 national teams will takeover Gillette Stadium. This selection of teams have advanced via previous round victories. 48 teams in total will participate in this next World Cup. In total, the tournament will consist of 104 matched over three countries. The United States will take on much of that. In fact, 16 cities across North America will serve as a host.

Here Is The Massachusetts FIFA 2026 Quarterfinal Schedule

  • Saturday, June 13, 2024 – Group Stage
  • Tuesday, June 16, 2024 – Group Stage
  • Friday, June 19, 2024 – Group Stage
  • Tuesday, June 23, 2024 – Group Stage
  • Friday, June 26, 2024 – Group Stage
  • Monday, June 29, 2024 – Round of 32
  • Thursday, July 9, 2024 – Quarterfinal Round

"With seven matches to be played in Boston, we have an unprecedented opportunity to bring our community together in celebration of the world’s most popular sport,” said Mike Loynd, President of Boston Soccer 26, in an issued press release. “We look forward to sharing more details soon on the opportunities of how Boston’s business community, passionate soccer fans, and citizens can get involved with what is guaranteed to be the most-watched sporting event in the world.”

In the meantime, the latest ticket information for the 2026 FIFA World Cup can be found here at Gillette Stadium's official site.

Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.