Gillette Stadium Is Becoming ‘Boston Stadium’ for the 2026 World Cup

The football stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts – both the current venue and its predecessor – has undergone several name changes through the years. Here we go again, but this name change is temporary.

CBS News Boston reported, "Gillette Stadium has a new look with 2026 FIFA World Cup matches coming to Foxboro, Massachusetts in June."

"In recent weeks, crews have covered up signage that says 'Gillette Stadium' at the home of the New England Patriots, Revolution, and Boston Legacy FC," the station reported.

Why FIFA Requires Temporary Stadium Names

During the World Cup matches, Gillette Stadium will be renamed Boston Stadium.

"This is standard practice for major international tournaments like the World Cup and Olympics," according to CBS News Boston, noting that 14 of the 16 World Cup stadiums will use temporary names during the 2026 games.

The reason: FIFA wants to protect its global commercial partners, and guarantee that only those who have paid for World Cup sponsorships are being promoted.

The Long History of Foxboro Stadium Name Changes

Longtime New England Patriots fans will remember that before Gillette Stadium opened in 2001, the Patriots played home games at Schaefer Stadium, renamed Sullivan Stadium, and finally Foxboro Stadium.

FIFA Rules Bring More Changes Than Just a New Name

The name change is not the only concession that had to be made to comply with FIFA regulations. Gillette Stadium has had to replace its artificial turf surface with real grass. The artificial turf will return in time for the NFL's opening day in September.

Parking and Transit Plans for World Cup Matches

To encourage public transit use, parking at Boston Stadium will be limited to 5,000 spots for soccer matches, down from the usual 20,000.

The high cost of train transportation from Boston to Foxboro for World Cup matches has raised eyebrows.

READ MORE: MBTA Price Surge Leaves World Cup Fans Frustrated

"Jim Nolan, COO of Kraft Sports and Entertainment, said approximately 5,000 spots will be available around the stadium, and thousands more will be available at private lots in the area," according to WCVB-TV.

The station said parking lots will open four hours before each match.