Bentley University as France's Base Camp:: Bentley Athletic Director Vaughn Williams confirmed that France has trained at the Waltham campus throughout the World Cup, regularly returning after matches. The team has committed to staying at Bentley for as long as their tournament run continues.
Massive Global Exposure:: Williams noted that hosting one of soccer's most successful national teams has brought tremendous international attention to both Bentley University and the city of Waltham.
Fan Excitement in Boston:: Outside the Four Seasons Hotel on Boylston Street, crowds of up to 100 fans waited for hours in the July heat to catch a glimpse of players like Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise before the quarterfinal match against Morocco at Foxborough.
Why This Matters:: This partnership showcases how smaller academic institutions can play a pivotal role in major international sporting events, generating tourism, media coverage, and community pride that extends far beyond the tournament itself.
Bentley Athletic Director Vaughn Williams described the relationship with the French national team as "more of a partnership, a relationship and a friendship than anything." France's decision to base its operations at Bentley instead of a traditional big-city hotel speaks to the quality of the university's athletic facilities and the warm welcome extended by the Waltham community.
Williams credited the university's facilities, grounds, security, IT, and operations teams for creating an environment where the team feels at home. "They consider Bentley University and Waltham home," Williams said. "They come home after a match."
While France trained in Waltham, the team stayed at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston's Back Bay. Fans like Anton Honikman and his 14-year-old son Sammy traveled from San Francisco, arriving at 9:15 a.m. in matching blue France jerseys for a 4 p.m. match. Sean Paul Cormier, 50, of East Boston, arrived at 9:30 a.m. — the owner of French Bouquet of Boston said supporting the team was a way to reconnect with his cultural roots.
When the team finally emerged, fans erupted in cheers chanting "Ramenez la coupe à la maison" (Bring the cup home). Players like Jules Koundé acknowledged the crowd, while most kept their focus with earbuds in and eyes straight ahead.
This topic is particularly resonant in New England, where the 2026 World Cup has brought international soccer fever to the region. With matches at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts has become a hub for global football, and Bentley's role as France's headquarters adds a unique local dimension to the tournament.
Why did France choose Bentley University as its World Cup headquarters?
While the exact reasons haven't been publicly detailed, Bentley University offers high-quality athletic training facilities, a secure and private campus environment, and a location conveniently close to Boston and Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, where matches are played.
How long will France stay at Bentley?
According to Athletic Director Vaughn Williams, France has committed to training at Bentley for as long as its tournament run continues. The team has said it will remain at the campus until eliminated from the World Cup.
Can fans visit Bentley to see the team?
The team's training sessions at Bentley are generally private. Fans hoping to see the players have gathered instead at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston, where the team stays between matches.
What does this mean for Bentley University?
Hosting France has brought significant global exposure to the university and the city of Waltham, highlighting Bentley's facilities and community to an international audience.
For Local Fans:: Keep an eye on Boston and Waltham for opportunities to catch a glimpse of world-class athletes. The Four Seasons Hotel in Back Bay has been a gathering point for fans.
For Sports Enthusiasts:: This story illustrates how major tournaments create unique cultural moments — international teams forming bonds with local communities that last well beyond the final whistle.
For Aspiring Host Institutions:: Bentley's success demonstrates that universities with quality facilities can attract world-class teams, generating invaluable publicity and community engagement.
For Travelers Planning World Cup Visits:: Consider that team headquarters are often located outside stadium cities, offering a different kind of fan experience away from the main matchday crowds.
What do you think about France making Massachusetts their home away from home during the World Cup? Have you spotted any players around Boston or Waltham during the tournament? Share your stories and photos with us!
*Do you think France has what it takes to go all the way to the final? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!*
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