Boston is about to get a giant—and we mean giant—new reason to celebrate the beautiful game. As the city gears up for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is bringing a record-breaking soccer ball to the waterfront that promises to be a must-see attraction for fans and families alike.
Set to debut this June at Piers Park II in East Boston, the massive soccer ball will stand an incredible 45 feet tall. That's not just big—it's aiming to shatter the current Guinness World Record of 38 feet, 11.8 inches, set in Doha, Qatar, back in 2013. If all goes according to plan, Boston will officially be home to the largest soccer ball ever created.
The display will be up for a full week, giving locals and visitors plenty of time to snap photos, take in the harbor views, and soak up the World Cup buzz. "We're proud to welcome the world to Boston as Massachusetts prepares to host FIFA World Cup matches," said Massport CEO Rich Davey. "Bringing this iconic display to East Boston allows people to come together and share in the excitement."
But the fun doesn't stop with the ball itself. On Saturday, June 13, from noon to 4 p.m., Massport is hosting a community celebration at Piers Park II, featuring family-friendly activities, games, and entertainment. (Note: World Cup matches won't be televised at the event, so plan your viewing parties accordingly.)
This giant soccer ball is just one piece of a larger effort to build momentum as Boston prepares to host seven World Cup matches at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough this summer. Massport is teaming up with HNTB and other sponsors to bring the installation to life. "HNTB is thrilled to partner on this one-of-a-kind attempt," said Paul Godfrey, vice president and Massachusetts office leader for HNTB. "This is about celebrating the global spirit of the game while creating an unforgettable moment for the community."
Whether you're a die-hard soccer fan or just looking for a fun waterfront outing, this record-breaking display is shaping up to be one of the summer's biggest highlights. So mark your calendars, grab your gear, and get ready to see Boston's skyline get a whole lot more sporty.