Lexington World Cup Watch Party On Hold Due To FIFA License Delay: "We Have Been Under Review For So Long"

CBS Boston

Updated on: May 14, 2026 / 5:20 AM EDT

The FIFA World Cup is a month away, yet in places like Lexington, Massachusetts, their partially state-funded watch parties are at a standstill. The town is pleading for a license to show the games, and they are not the only town waiting for answers.

"Under review. We have been under review for so long," said Olivia Kelley, executive director of the Lexington Chamber of Commerce. "We have every partner in town on board, and they are not thrilled it's not a super done deal."

The Chamber of Commerce helped match the state's $25,000 grant to fund their series of events. They say FIFA's viewing licensing submission period ended in late February and early March, yet they are still waiting for an answer. It's holding up thousands of dollars in planning.

Olivia Kelley, executive director of the Lexington Chamber of Commerce/ CBS Boston

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