Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
LEXINGTON, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Lexington isn't alone in feeling frustrated over what it calls a 'lack of communication' with FIFA.
FIFA is soccer's worldwide governing body.
Among its responsibilities is overseeing the 2026 World Cup that is being held this summer in Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
Seven of the games are being held in Foxboro, Massachusetts, at Gillette Stadium, rebranded for the tournament as Boston Stadium.
Towns and cities like Lexington are holding World Cup watch parties for fans who want to watch the games with other festive fans on giant jumbotron screens while enjoying food and drink.
The problem is that none of the watch party locations received the license needed from FIFA to legally broadcast the games.
Sandhya Iyer, Lexington's Economic Development and Tourism Director, said Lexington sent its watch party application to FIFA in February. "It's been a while, yes," she said. "The frustration comes from a lack of communication."
Lexington is just one of about 15 organizations/municipalities still awaiting FIFA's approval to host the watch parties.
Iyer said even if FIFA does not issue a license, Lexington will still hold a World Cup fan event.
WBZ NewsRadio has reached out to FIFA for a response.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@jamesrojas.bsky.social) reports.