- Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Massachusetts will host seven FIFA World Cup matches this summer, starting Saturday, June 13th. Along with our nation’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Sail Boston events taking place July 11th - 15th, residents and visitors will be on the go more than ever to celebrate and enjoy many events this summer. All motorists should be aware of peak travel days to prepare for increased traffic, and be advised that the MassDOT Highway Assistance Program, sponsored by Mapfre Insurance, is there to help keep everyone moving safely.
MassDOT has launched a statewide “Kick the Drive” campaign to share information on alternate transportation plans and preparations for the seven World Cup matches in Foxborough at “Boston Stadium” (a.k.a. Gillette Stadium) and the Fan Festival at City Hall Plaza in Boston.
MassDOT encourages residents, commuters, and visitors to plan ahead and use public transportation on match days when significant traffic increases are expected. The MBTA Commuter Rail has round-trip tickets available to the stadium at https://www.mbta.com/guides/world-cup-guide.
Since Massachusetts’ roads will see travelers from near and far to enjoy these special events, many drivers may be unfamiliar with the area. Due to the timing of six of the seven matches on weekdays, regular workday commutes will be impacted. Plan for longer travel times, slowdowns, and delays, especially northbound and southbound of I-495 near Exit 32 due to stadium traffic during the World Cup matches. Consider alternate routes and avoid the Route 1 corridor near the stadium if not attending the match.
Parking at Foxborough will be available only by pre-paid reservation and will require drivers present a ticket for that day’s match to enter the lot. Non-ticket holders will be
turned away. This includes all private lots in the stadium area and entrance to all stadium parking, which is also by pre-paid, reserved ticket only. Purchase stadium parking here: https://www.justpark.com/us/event-parking/fifa-world-cup-2026/boston-stadium/.
Follow travel and World Cup match day information here at https://bostonfwc26.com/.
Mapfre Insurance is the exclusive sponsor of the MassDOT Highway Assistance Program, which helps protect and assist drivers along major routes throughout the state, regardless of their insurance carrier, and the service is free. The patrol plays a key role in keeping traffic flowing and assisting motorists by changing flat tires, fixing minor mechanical problems, removing debris from the road after an accident, and providing emergency medical help. The state provides these services to reduce traffic congestion caused by stalled vehicles on the side of the highway. The program has been proven to reduce the likelihood of secondary incidents and to reduce gas emissions. Adherence to the Move Over Law helps prevent tragedies. In Massachusetts, failure to comply with the law could result in a fine of up to $100. Whenever motorists see flashing lights, whether it’s a Highway Assistance vehicle, law enforcement officer, firefighter, or tow truck driver, they are urged to proceed with caution and reduce their speed while changing lanes to move over to protect these first responders.
Look for the Highway Assistance informational signs along Massachusetts’ roadways to reach out for help if you experience a breakdown.
The Mass511 app offers helpful real-time travel information from MassDOT. The app provides access to live traffic conditions, incident reports, construction updates, and roadway camera feeds. Prepare for the summer by downloading the free app at https://www.mass511.com/help/135/Mass511-Mobile-App.
The Mapfre Insurance-sponsored MassDOT Highway Assistance Program is on patrol to help all motorists, including motorcyclists, on the highways. Patrol operators monitor some of the state’s busiest highways around Metro Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cape Cod (seasonal). The Highway Assistance Patrol covers 13 major state roadways and interstates, the Emergency Service Patrol covers the Mass Pike (I-90) from New York to Boston and the Incident Response Operators cover the Metropolitan Highway System and tunnels. The Highway Assistance Patrol is in service Monday–Friday between 6 a.m.–10 a.m. and 3 p.m.–7 p.m. During holidays, there are extended routes in heavy-traffic areas. On I-90, and in Boston’s tunnel system, assistance is provided 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.
Written by,
Your friends at Mapfre Insurance
