MBTA unveils early transit plans

The MBTA has released early transportation guidance for visitors ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as officials prepare for an estimated 450,000 fans traveling to the Boston area next summer. The games are expected to generate more than $1 billion in economic impact for the region, according to organizers.

The MBTA has spent the past year coordinating with the Healey-Driscoll Administration, local municipalities, and Gillette Stadium/The Kraft Group in the last year to prepare for the international event.

“The MBTA fully understands the critical role it will play in moving soccer fans next year, and we expect to transport up to 20,000 riders in and out of each match,” MBTA representative Lisa Battiston wrote in an e-mail to Boston.com.

It will release service schedules, ticket information, and more in the coming months on MBTA.com/WorldCup.

Gillette Stadium will be renamed “Boston Stadium,” FIFA’s designation of the stadium located in Foxborough.

Boston Stadium will host seven games this summer from June 13 to July 9, which includes five group stage games, a Round of 32 matchup, and a quarterfinal. Ticket prices range from $180 to $1,270 for the events in Boston.

There will be a Boston Stadium Express train from the Boston area to Foxborough during this period. Tickets to Boston Stadium will go on sale Spring 2026 on the MBTA’s mTicket app. The guide also states: “You must have a ticket to a World Cup match to buy Boston Stadium Train tickets.”

“None of us want transportation to be the story when the World Cup is here,” MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng told Boston25 News. “We need to make sure we protect the level of service for commuters while moving fans.”

The transit agency included guides on airport transportation and how to use the T, including ferry, bus, commuter rail, and subway service.

Work at Foxboro Station has been underway since August and is expected to conclude by June 2026. The $35 million renovation aims to expand capacity and improve accessibility ahead of World Cup influx.