As the World Cup arrives, Massachusetts is in full gear, ready for the chaos that is coming. Massachusetts governor Maura Healey says the state is “Match Ready” as Foxborough is set to host its first World Cup match on Saturday. There is much to be excited for and lots of chaos to expect.
Transportation seems like it will be one of the biggest concerns this year. With massive crowds of people throughout Foxborough and Boston, tens of thousands of fans are expected to travel through Boston’s South Station and MBTA on the way to Gillette. Officials urge visitors to plan commutes ahead of time to avoid the chaotic and busy trains on match day. The MBTA says that over 50% of train tickets for the first five matches have already been sold, with thousands more being purchased every day.
After years of planning in Massachusetts, things are finally ready to commence and the whole state is anxiously waiting for the massive traffic in and out of Foxborough that is ahead. To tackle this issue, the MBTA will run dedicated match day trains between South Station and Foxborough, and extended subway service. These trains will run every fifteen minutes, and to get on one, a person must have a train ticket and a match ticket for that day. Local HHS student Oliver Ruccio gave his sentiments on the World Cup, saying, “I wanted to go with my dad or a friend to the game, but it seems like more of a hassle to get to and from then might be worth it.” Locals couldn’t agree more with Oliver.
MassDOT and the MBTA are teaming up to assist locals and foreign fans with this transportation issue. Fans are recommended to plan ahead, build extra time into their schedule, and use modes of public transport.
People couldn’t be more excited for Saturday as Scotland and Haiti kick off the first World Cup game in Massachusetts. Foxborough’s 65,000 seat stadium will host four group stage games, a round of 32, and a quarterfinal match. Gillette Stadium is ready, and fans couldn’t be more excited. Local Hingham student Flynn Deady was asked about his thoughts on the World Cup in Foxborough. He said, “I love soccer, and I love the world cup, but I don’t think I’ll be attending a game at Gillette with all this traffic and crazy prices.” He is right, ticket prices are crazy and most people are out of luck when hoping to attend a match. With the insane prices of stadium tickets, and train or parking tickets, the money really adds up.
But despite the crazy traffic and insanely high prices, fans can still get the full World Cup experience. Local stores have started filling up with FIFA gear in preparation. For fans that can’t make a match, there are always watch parties and so many more events in and around Boston. This year’s World Cup will be like no other, and is set to be busy and exciting in the state of Massachusetts.
