Authorities in Foxborough, Massachusetts, are threatening to withhold necessary permits for World Cup matches at the stadium slated to host two upcoming Norway group stage games next summer. The dispute centers around security costs, and a license must be approved by March 17th, or the matches could be in jeopardy.
The potential disruption would be a setback for the Norwegian team.
Truls Dæhli, sporting director for the Norwegian Football Federation (NFF), is aware of the situation. “We are planning for two matches in Boston. If, against all odds, that were to change, it would be impossible to know what to plan for,” Dæhli told Dagbladet. “We have chosen our base camp with Boston and New Jersey in mind, so we are planning to play matches there.”
Sportslig prosjektleder, NFF
Dæhli recently returned to the NFF, having led the effort to find a suitable location for the national team to base themselves before and during the World Cup.
The dispute in Foxborough highlights the financial risks associated with hosting major sporting events, and the importance of clear agreements regarding cost allocation. The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
– How disappointing would it be if you had to change everything before the World Cup?
– If that means we have to create a completely new plan, it would obviously be dramatic. It’s tough to imagine how that would work. It would have consequences for more than just us,” Dæhli responded.
In addition to Norway, Scotland is also scheduled to play two of its group stage matches at the Foxborough venue.
Dæhli expressed confidence that the parties would reach an agreement. “We assume this dispute will be resolved. Until something dramatic happens, we remain calm.”
Reaction
According to U.S. Media reports, the costs for security and emergency services are estimated at at least $75 million. Local authorities believed the stadium owners would cover the bill, but since FIFA is leasing the arena during the World Cup, the city contends it will be responsible for the expenses, which are expected to be reimbursed afterward, though a guarantee is lacking.
U.S. Expert Eirik Løkke believes it is unlikely the matches will be moved. “We are getting closer to the World Cup and it’s a huge event with a lot of logistics. It would require major logistical changes if the soccer matches were to be moved,” he told Dagbladet.
USA-ekspert
– Where could the matches be moved?
– In the worst case, it would have to be alternative stadiums in the U.S. That could take on the task. But they likely wouldn’t be very interested without promises of financial support for security. So you would potentially face the same type of problems you already have,” Løkke said, adding: “It could create chaos and uncertainty if Donald Trump digs in his heels and interferes. But given that federal funds have been promised, I don’t see his behavior being a problem in this context.”
According to Løkke, the situation demonstrates the significant financial risk local authorities face when hosting large sporting events. Without clear agreements on cost-sharing, cities could risk substantial losses.
He pointed out that this is precisely why Norwegian Olympic bids require extensive government guarantees to cover any potential deficits, and emphasized that the sums involved in a World Cup are even larger.
– But this should have been settled earlier,” Løkke said.
He also noted that although FIFA is responsible for the tournament itself, the responsibility for security, emergency preparedness, and policing lies with local authorities. Cities are therefore responsible for the practical implementation of the event.
“You can’t”
Dagbladet’s commentator Esten O. Sæther said that while it wouldn’t be a crisis for Norway if plans had to be changed, “it would be a lot of extra work. There are many other great places, so I’m sure they’ll manage. A lot of work it will be, though,” Sæther said.
Sportskommentator i Dagbladet
Foxborough has not yet ordered any of the necessary security services, and will, according to CBS News, not do so until coverage of the expenses is guaranteed.
– We can’t put out that kind of money without guarantees,” said City Councilor Bill Yukna.
Foxborough has a population of around 18,000 and has not yet ordered necessary security services.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey says she is confident that the parties will find a solution in time.
Norway is scheduled to play a winner from an intercontinental playoff on June 17th (local time) and France on June 26th at the Foxborough stadium.
