10 Things You Need to Know About Gillette Stadium

The many transformations and rebuilds of the stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts makes for a great story only New Englanders would appreciate.

Do you remember Schaefer Stadium in 1971, the permanent home of the New England Patriots once they moved out of Boston?  Then it became Sullivan Stadium from 1983-1989, and then Foxboro Stadium in 1989 before it was demolished in 2001 and the new Gillette Stadium, was built right next door, and opened in 2002, according to stadiumsofprofootball.com.

What's In a Name

Gillette Stadium, thanks to the leadership of owner Robert Kraft, has become a world-class stadium, not only the flagship for the Patriots, but also MLS soccer team, the New England Revolution.

Also, the stadium has hosted massive concerts since 2002, with the first ever indoor show being The Rolling Stones "Licks" Tour.   In 2022 they played at the stadium again for the 20th year celebration.

The stadium has some interesting architecture too, with a nod to New England landmarks.  The original Gillette Stadium had a large tower with a silhouette at the top of lighthouse.

World Cup is Coming to MA

That lighthouse has been completely redesigned in the recent renovations, and it now illuminates at the top and there's a small 200 square foot room you can rent out.called the Lantern Room.   There's also an observation deck around the top that's open to the public.

In 2026, several matches during the FIFA World Cup will be played at Gillette Stadium, however due to FIFA Rules regarding stadium sponsorships, it will be called Boston Stadium for these matches. It's the first time the World Cup has come back to North America since 1994.

Read More: World Cup Returning to New England

Capacity is 65,878 for football games, but 70,000 for concerts.

There are many surprises about Gillette Stadium, and here are 10 of the most interesting facts.  Keep reading.