New Bedford Rolls Out Welcome Mat For FIFA World Cup Soccer Fans

It won't be long before soccer fans from around the globe descend upon Massachusetts for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Tournament. Organizers have scheduled seven soccer matches for Gillette Stadium in Foxboro from June 13 to July 9.

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, never one to skip a beat when it comes to promoting the Whaling City, is rolling out a welcome mat for World Cup participants and fans.

"New Bedford is a short drive from Foxboro and is a great place to stay for the games," Mitchell said. "From beautiful beaches to unique restaurants, attractions, and museums, our city has something for everyone while they are here for the World Cup."

State House News Service reported, "State officials say they are making progress on preparations but raise fresh concerns about World Cup funding and event locations in a new report to the Legislature."

Hold the phone! According to New Bedford Publication Information Officer Jonathan Darling, the City may be able to help out there, too.

"The city's first regulation-sized soccer field outside of a public school opened last year at Dias Field," Darling said. "That park also has the city's first mini-pitch, which is an emerging version of soccer on a smaller court. The interest surrounding the World Cup could be a boost to the min-pitch gaining popularity."

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"The City is working with Southeastern Massachusetts Visitors Bureau on marketing and advertising around the World Cup," he said.

"People from around the world will descend on Massachusetts this summer for the World Cup, and we encourage all of them to explore New Bedford and experience what makes our city special," Mitchell said.