The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has reported record-breaking sales for special event commuter rail tickets ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches hosted at Gillette Stadium, known to FIFA fans as Boston Stadium. On the first day of sales, approximately 17,450 round-trip tickets were purchased for transit between Boston’s South Station and Foxborough, setting a new high in the rate of special event ticket sales.

During the first hour alone, 11,000 tickets were sold, including 5,000 within the first 10 minutes, marking the fastest hourly sales in MBTA history. This demand approaches the pace of ticket sales seen during the second release of tickets for Taylor Swift’s 2023 concerts, which sold out in about two minutes with just over 1,800 tickets. By comparison, total ticket sales for Swift’s events in the region were lower than those for the World Cup matches.

Tickets for the special World Cup service are priced at $80 each, and purchasers must provide proof of a valid match ticket to complete their purchase. Additionally, the MBTA has capped ticket availability at 20,000 per match day, with priority given to customers linked to individual match tickets through email registration on the MBTA’s mTicket platform.

The June 13 match between Haiti and Scotland accounted for a significant portion of sales, with over 6,200 tickets sold for that single game. The Haitian community in the Boston area, noted for their strong support of their national team, is believed to be a key factor behind this high demand. Some observers have speculated that FIFA’s recent decision to allow Scottish fans to wear traditional sporrans during matches may have also influenced ticket sales for matches involving Scotland.

In preparation for up to two million visitors expected during the tournament, which coincides with other major events such as the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations and Boston Harborfest, the MBTA is expanding service to facilitate fan travel. Ticket holders are authorized to use the entire commuter rail network on match days, providing flexible travel options for attendees who may choose to stay in various locations across the region.

Philip Eng, acting secretary of transportation and MBTA general manager, expressed pride in the agency’s efforts to accommodate unprecedented demand, emphasizing the importance of innovative planning to safely manage the large crowds for the World Cup.

Local organizers for the Boston-area World Cup events have adjusted their fundraising expectations in recent months, lowering projections by $70 million to a current estimate of $100 million. Meanwhile, the MBTA is advising customers to review eligibility requirements, adhere to stadium bag policies, and seek assistance through customer service channels as needed. Passengers are reminded that prohibited items will not be allowed on trains, and clear bags are strongly recommended to comply with security measures.