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Governor says Massachusetts is 'match ready' for World Cup; officials announce 1,100 free tickets for kids
Summary
State officials said Massachusetts is prepared to host seven World Cup matches in Foxboro, announced 1,100 free tickets for children sponsored by Airbnb and to be distributed through community organizations, and outlined public-safety messaging and next steps.
Governor opened a state briefing saying Massachusetts is prepared to host seven FIFA World Cup matches in Foxboro and urged residents to consult the state website for detailed information. "Massachusetts is match ready," the governor said, framing the event as a statewide effort coordinated across local, state and federal partners.
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll said the state and local partners have spent months preparing. "We're able to secure $76 million in federal funding to make sure we could coordinate closely so we could try and plan for every potential scenario that could happen," Driscoll said, adding that 90 watch parties are planned across the Commonwealth.
Officials announced that 1,100 tickets will be made available at no charge to children across Massachusetts through community organizations, with distribution led by local groups including the Boys & Girls Club and sponsored by Airbnb. During questions, officials confirmed the 1,100‑ticket figure; the governor and the lieutenant governor said community groups serving young people will manage distribution.
Public-health and safety precautions were a focus of the briefing. Officials urged fans to "plan ahead, pack light," enable emergency alerts and follow the Match Ready Massachusetts guidance at mass.gov/worldcup. The Department of Public Health will coordinate with EMS and medical teams on-site and monitor health risks such as heat exposure.
Officials emphasized that dates matter for planning: seven matches are scheduled in Foxboro on June 13, 16, 19, 23, 26, 29 and July 9. Organizers encouraged residents to factor those dates into travel and watch-party plans.
The briefing closed with a reminder that more information and match‑day guidance — including lists of prohibited items and transit details — are posted at mass.gov/worldcup. Officials said they will continue to share updates with local partners before and after each match.
