World Cup Organization Reiterates Financial Commitment to Secure Foxborough Venue
The organization of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reaffirmed its commitment to finance security costs in Foxborough, in an effort to resolve the dispute that threatens the license needed for the use of the stadium. In a letter sent to city officials on Thursday, the organizers detailed their financial commitment. The document, signed by Mike Loynd, president of Boston Soccer 2026, and general counsel Curtis Franks, ensures that public safety expenses will be covered within two business days of receiving the invoice. Additionally, the organizing committee provided written documentation confirming the financial backing of Kraft Sports & Entertainment, a division of Kraft Group, owner of the stadium. To address local officials’ concerns about the committee’s finances, Loynd and Franks indicated that the committee had $2 million in its bank accounts on Thursday morning, and that they will receive at least an additional $30 million.The main point of conflict is the payment of almost $8 million that the city needs to cover the expenses of the local police. Foxborough is awaiting funds from a federal grant, delayed by the partial government shutdown, and local officials are seeking a guarantee of upfront payment from the organizers. In a local board meeting earlier in the week, the lawyers representing the organizing committee stated that payment would be made, but the parties did not reach an agreement. After the meeting, board president Bill Yukna stated that although the committee had given assurances, the city had not received anything in writing. In the letter, the organizers expressed that they believe they have addressed “each and every concern” raised by local police and fire chiefs regarding the World Cup. Foxborough city officials plan to vote on granting FIFA a license for the use of the stadium for seven World Cup matches at their next meeting on March 17. Gillette Stadium is scheduled to host its first match on June 13, in which Scotland will face Haiti.With the current funds of BS26, additional government funding and commercial activity, and the financial commitment of KSE, there is no doubt that BS26 has the means to pay all amounts due in relation to the holding of World Cup events.
Mike Loynd and Curtis Franks
