BOSTON, MA (January 20, 2026) – The Boston Host Committee for the FIFA World Cup 26™ today announced Governor Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu to the Boston 26 Honorary Board. The Board brings together distinguished leaders in the public and private sectors to provide strategic guidance and vision to Boston 26, the non-profit organization responsible for the FIFA World Cup 26™ tournament preparations and celebrations across the Boston region.
“The 2026 World Cup is an enormous opportunity for Massachusetts to engage all of our communities while also generating significant economic benefits for the residents and businesses throughout the Commonwealth. We are honored to welcome Governor Healey and Mayor Wu to the Boston 26 Honorary Board,” said Ron O’Hanley, Chairman of the Honorary Board and Chairman and CEO of State Street. “Their leadership and commitment have been instrumental from the start, and we look forward to working together to deliver meaningful results for residents, businesses, and visitors across the Commonwealth.”
Boston 26 has worked closely with the Healey-Driscoll administration and City of Boston as preparations continue for the FIFA World Cup 26, which is expected to generate more than $1 billion in projected economic impact across the region. Planning efforts include celebration and fan engagement activities, transportation, public safety, wayfinding and signage, accessibility services, equity and inclusion initiatives, sustainability efforts, and volunteer support.
“Massachusetts is the home of champions, and hosting the FIFA World Cup 26 here is a great opportunity to showcase all that we have to offer to players and fans from around the world. This will have major economic benefits for our businesses and our state,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I’m excited to join the Boston 26 Honorary Board and look forward to working with this incredible group of leaders to make sure the World Cup is a resounding success here in Massachusetts.”
“As we prepare to welcome fans from around the globe, we continue to work in close partnership with Boston 26 and the State to welcome the world to the City of Champions,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This is an unparalleled chance to showcase all that Boston has to offer, bring our communities together, and harness the economic benefits for our local businesses and workforce. Boston is honored and thrilled to host the World Cup, and we look forward to creating a safe, welcoming, and exciting experience for all.”
Governor Healey and Mayor Wu join a group of highly influential leaders from across the region who currently serve on the Boston 26 Honorary Board, including:
- Miceal Chamberlain, President of Bank of America Massachusetts and Northeast Region Executive for Global Commercial Banking
- Chris Davis, Global Brand President & Chief Marketing Officer of New Balance
- Brian Foard, Executive Vice President and Head of Specialty Care, Sanofi
- Ron O’Hanley, Chairman of the Boston 26 Honorary Board and Chairman and CEO of State Street Corporation
- Jason Robins, CEO and Co-Founder of DraftKings
- Martha Sheridan, President and CEO of Meet Boston