World Cup Set for Foxborough After Security Funding Deal, Massachusetts Rent Control Debate Heats Up

Foxborough, Massachusetts, is back on track to host seven matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after reaching an agreement on security funding, while a proposed ballot question on statewide rent control is already impacting housing development in the state, according to Governor Maura Healey.

World Cup Games Confirmed for Gillette Stadium

A deal was reached between the town of Foxborough, the Kraft Group, and Boston Soccer 2026 to secure advance funding for security costs associated with the World Cup games at Gillette Stadium. This agreement ensures the approval of a necessary license at the Foxborough select board’s meeting on March 17, averting a potential crisis just weeks before the vote ESPN reported.

The agreement stipulates that the town of Foxborough will not incur any costs related to the World Cup. Boston Soccer 2026 will provide advance funding for security-related capital expenditures, backed by Kraft Sports + Entertainment WCVB.

Gillette Stadium, with a capacity of 65,000, is slated to host seven matches during the tournament FIFA. For any FIFA World Cup related inquiries, please reach out to FIFAWorldCup@gillettestadium.com.

Rent Control Ballot Question Stalls Housing Development

Governor Healey has stated that the potential ballot question to impose statewide rent control is already negatively affecting housing development in Massachusetts. She told the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce that investors are pulling out of projects due to the uncertainty surrounding the proposal WBUR.

The proposed ballot question would cap annual rent increases at the rate of inflation or 5%, whichever is lower, with some exceptions for new buildings. Healey has expressed support for local communities to implement rent control but believes the statewide proposal is too broad.

The governor reported receiving calls from developers who lost funding after the ballot question qualified for the ballot last fall, potentially impacting thousands of housing units.

Healey argues that increasing the housing supply is the solution to high rents, not rent control. A study commissioned by opponents of the ballot question warns it could significantly reduce local property tax revenue.

Other News from Massachusetts

• Governor Healey also reiterated her opposition to a proposed ballot question to cut the state’s income tax from 5% to 4%, citing a potential $5 billion impact on the state budget.
• The Healey administration is planning further cuts to the state’s emergency shelter system, reducing capacity to 3,200 units despite current low occupancy rates.
• Boston police are investigating a fatal shooting following a carjacking in Roxbury.