Sanofi has kicked off its preparations for the 2026 World Cup by becoming an official backer of Boston’s involvement in the soccer showcase.
Boston is one of 11 U.S. cities where World Cup matches will be played this summer. The event, which will also use stadiums in Canada and Mexico, will see soccer teams from 48 countries travel to North America for one of the most-watched sporting events worldwide. Boston will host seven matches at Gillette Stadium and, like other cities involved in the event, has begun to sign up sponsors.
Sanofi, which employs around 5,000 people in Massachusetts, has answered the call for sponsors. The French drugmaker said Wednesday that the agreement highlights its commitment to the region and reflects the values it shares with the event—namely, connecting people, fostering inclusion and striving for excellence.
As part of the arrangement, Tanisha Sullivan, head of external engagement at Sanofi, has joined the FIFA World Cup Boston 26 Honorary Board. The appointment positions Sullivan to provide guidance, advocate for community-focused initiatives and support public engagement efforts.
Sanofi framed its support for the 2026 World Cup as part of its broader engagement with Massachusetts, which also includes putting up cash for the state’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday this July.
The need to find corporate support for multiple events this summer has reportedly contributed to a slow initial influx of cash for Boston’s World Cup preparations, which are predicted to cost the city at least $100 million.
Other regions, however, seem to be moving faster. Two other World Cup host cities, Los Angeles and New Jersey, teamed up with Amgen and Bristol Myers Squibb, respectively, in December. Amgen signed on as part of its agreement to become the official biotech partner and a foundational partner of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission, the nonprofit bringing the 2026 World Cup and 2027 Super Bowl to L.A.
Like Sanofi, Amgen and BMS are supporting locations where they have a strong presence. Amgen’s headquarters is about 40 miles from downtown L.A., while BMS is based in New Jersey, which will host the World Cup final.