French national soccer team is gearing up for the upcoming World Cup by holding a series of practices at Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts, a move that has drawn attention from local residents and officials alike.
A Unique Pre‑World Cup Arrangement
Vaughn Williams, the university’s director of athletics, outlined the intricate process of securing the deal, from arranging field preparation after a harsh winter to coordinating with federal and state security agencies.
Governor Maura Healey underscored the significance of robust security protocols for hosting an international squad, noting that the presence of the French team reflects positively on the Commonwealth’s global profile.
Among the spectators were brothers Leon Pinard and Gaspard Pinard, French expatriates living in the Boston area, who attended an open practice on Friday and expressed optimism about France’s prospects in the tournament.
While most training sessions remain closed to the public, the limited Friday event allowed fans to hear whistles and cheers in French as the team took the pitch, highlighting the cultural connection that transcends continents.
Williams emphasized that the arrangement is financially neutral for the university and serves as a net positive, reinforcing Bentley’s role as a hub for high‑profile sporting events.