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Foxborough Threatens to Withhold World Cup License Over $7.7 Million Security Bill

Officials insist on upfront payment because available federal funds reimburse expenses after the fact.

Overview

  • Town leaders say they will deny the entertainment license for seven Gillette Stadium matches if $7.7–$7.8 million for security is not paid before a March 17 deadline.
  • Foxborough’s town manager said the community cannot front the costs or rely on later repayment, and the select board chair stressed local taxpayers will not underwrite an international event.
  • Boston’s 2026 host committee says it is in active talks with FIFA, the stadium, and Foxborough, with weekly meetings aimed at reaching a funding agreement.
  • Massachusetts is slated to receive about $47 million from a $625 million federal security grant pool for U.S. host cities, but disbursements come later and the host committee has secured only $10 million of a $20 million state request.
  • Scotland’s opening group matches against Haiti and Morocco are scheduled for Foxborough, and the stadium has begun converting to natural grass, but the fixtures remain at risk without a deal.