Senator O'Connor withdraws amendment seeking $20 million for World Cup transportation; debate stresses transit shortfalls

Senator O'Connor offered an amendment to restore $20,000,000 to a line item tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup but withdrew it after floor discussion. The amendment would have returned funds that the governor's proposed closeout budget originally included and that the House reduced or removed in later drafts.

Senator O'Connor said the World Cup "will be the largest World Cup event in its history" and warned the region's transportation infrastructure will be pushed to the limit, noting that "with 7 matches being held at Gillette Stadium, each expected to be at or beyond capacity" and that the MBTA projects roughly "30,000 fans per match" on commuter rail to the stadium. He said the MBTA projects a 147% increase in daily passengers during the tournament period and a 600% increase on match days.

Senator O'Connor highlighted comparisons with other host cities and their funding: "San Francisco, 17. Los Angeles, 17. Boston, 0. That should take pause," and argued a state investment would support safety, transit reliability and long-term tourism benefits. He cited a projected "$1,100,000,000 total impact, and an estimated $100,000,000 in new tax revenue," and said the event could create "9,000 jobs." He also noted federal security support of "$46,600,000."

Senator Feeney, speaking after the withdrawal, described the issue as ongoing conversation among leadership and Ways and Means and said he shared concerns about spending public dollars on private entities but saw potential return on investment. Feeney urged continued talks with the chair and the Senate president to "right size our investment into these games next year."

The amendment was formally withdrawn on the floor; senators said discussions between legislative leaders, the Ways and Means Committee and city and private partners would continue.

Why it matters: Massachusetts will host multiple matches in a short period, concentrated at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, and lawmakers said transportation and public-safety preparations require funding and coordination across state, local and private partners. No state appropriation was added on the floor as part of the withdrawn amendment.