A Giant Ball on the Waterfront
Massport is set to unveil a 45‑foot soccer ball that will tower over Boston Harbor, aiming to claim the Guinness World Record for the largest soccer ball ever displayed. The structure, weighing roughly 2,200 pounds, will be erected at Piers Park II in East Boston and remain on view from June 12 through June 18.
The ambitious project carries a price tag of $300,000, with the cost split evenly between Massport and corporate sponsors, including the engineering firm HNTB. The ball’s construction mirrors the materials used in a standard soccer ball, but on a scale that will be visible from across the harbor.
To mark the occasion, a family‑friendly community celebration is scheduled for June 13 at Piers Park II. Attendees can enjoy a range of activities while the ball is officially measured by Guinness World Records officials who will travel to Ohio later in the week to verify the record.
The festivities will spill over to Gillette Stadium that same evening, where Haiti will face Scotland in a special match kicking off at 9 p.m. The game adds a global soccer flavor to the local celebration, tying the Boston event to the broader excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Massport CEO Rich Davey emphasized that the display is about more than a record; it is a way to bring people together and share the anticipation of an upcoming world‑class tournament. "We want to create a moment that resonates with the community and highlights the spirit of togetherness," Davey said.
Beyond the spectacle, the event underscores Boston’s role as a hub for international sport. By aligning the local display with the 2026 World Cup schedule, Massport hopes to foster a sense of connection between residents and the global soccer community.