Boston 26 and U.S. Soccer Foundation to Build Mini-Pitches Throughout New England
Boston 26 and the US Soccer Federation looking to build hype and foster community in the lead up to the 2026 World Cup.
While we are still a ways away from World Cup soccer kicking off inside Gillette Stadium, Boston 26 and the United States Soccer Foundation are ramping up the hype for the event by bringing the sport to local communities.
One way they plan to do so is the construction of up to 20 new mini-pitches throughout the New England region. Mini pitches are a part of the U.S. Soccer Federation’s Safe Places to Play program, which transforms and revitalizes under-served areas into state-of-the-art places to play soccer while encouraging physical activity and fostering community.
US Soccer Foundation president and chief executive officer Ed Foster-Simeon said the organization is thrilled to partner with Boston 26 to bring mini-pitches to the region in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup.
“Together, we’ll use our game to improve the health and well-being of youth and strengthen communities, creating a legacy for this tournament that will benefit generations to come,” he said.
Boston 26’s chief impact officer Alex Klosterkemper highlighted the importance of the project and added that being a host city will positively impact many facets of life during and beyond 2026.
“As a FIFA World Cup Host City, we have a tremendous, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to drive economic, environmental and social impact for our region,” he said. “Sport, and soccer in particular, has the power to unite, energize and create a passionate following that we want to harness for positive change. The mini-pitch project is the start of a holistic program to leave a positive impact for our region leading up to 2026 and beyond.”
Rare W for the USSF