Rhode Island's stunning coastline is ready to welcome World Cup visitors.
Rhode Island is gearing up to capitalize on the economic opportunities surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even though it will not host any matches. The newly formed nonprofit, Ocean State 2026, aims to attract tourists heading to nearby Massachusetts for the event. Led by Governor Dan McKee, the initiative seeks to enhance the local economy by promoting tourism, improving infrastructure, and creating cultural events. Rhode Island anticipates a significant increase in economic activity, estimating over $50 million in tourism revenue as it positions itself as an appealing destination for World Cup attendees.
Rhode Island is gearing up to boost its economy ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the state not being a host location for any of the matches. The newly established nonprofit organization, Ocean State 2026, aims to capitalize on the anticipated influx of tourists and economic opportunities stemming from the tournament, which will take place in nearby Massachusetts.
With Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts set to host multiple World Cup matches, an expected surge of international visitors will flock to the Greater Boston area during the tournament. Ocean State 2026 intends to harness this influx to enhance tourism and stimulate local economic growth across Rhode Island.
The initiative was officially launched by Governor Dan McKee, who appointed Liz Tanner, the former Commerce Secretary, as the Executive Director of Ocean State 2026. The organization’s Board of Directors will be led by General Treasurer James Diossa as Chairman, alongside Ernie Almonte, who chairs the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority.
Ocean State 2026 will focus on coordinating efforts between state and local government officials, various tourism entities, and the FIFA World Cup Boston Host Committee. The collaboration aims to strategically target a share of an estimated 1 million visitors projected to arrive in the Greater Boston area for the World Cup. With Rhode Island seeking to attract a portion of this audience, the initiative has set ambitious goals for economic activity, projecting an increase of over $50 million for the state through heightened tourism.
The expected boost in visitors will primarily benefit sectors such as beach tourism, restaurant spending, and local hospitality services. In preparation, Ocean State 2026 plans to enhance tourism infrastructure and improve hotel availability, ensuring that the state is an attractive option for World Cup attendees. This strategy includes promoting local attractions and developing initiatives designed to appeal specifically to sports fans.
Additionally, Ocean State 2026 aims to create cultural events linked to the World Cup that showcase Rhode Island’s unique offerings. To fund these initiatives, the organization will pursue sponsorship opportunities and launch marketing campaigns aimed at soccer enthusiasts worldwide.
Significant public infrastructure investments are also anticipated, which will not only support tourism but will also have long-lasting benefits for the overall local economy. Although the Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket will not host any official matches, it is expected to serve as a venue for community events related to the World Cup celebrations.
Through these initiatives, Ocean State 2026 is committed to creating a lasting legacy that supports local businesses by preparing them for the increased demand expected during the tournament. Both Governor McKee and Lt. Governor Sabina Matos have highlighted the critical nature of this opportunity for Rhode Island’s future economy and the state’s visibility as a desirable tourist destination.
The collective efforts spearheaded by Ocean State 2026 aim to ensure that all Rhode Islanders can reap the benefits of the World Cup’s presence in the region, contributing to an overall enhancement of the state’s economic landscape.
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