On Wednesday, August 19, 2026, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court affirmed the trial court’s ruling that the City of Boston’s public-private partnership with a women’s professional soccer team to renovate White Stadium does not violate Article 97. The decision brings a years-long dispute to a close and allows the city to move forward with a once-in-a-generation investment in Boston Public Schools student athletes.
Along with Goulston & Storrs lawyers Gary M. Ronan and John F. White III, Rose Law Partners represented the City of Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu, and the trustees of the George Robert White Fund, first helping to achieve a trial victory in March 2025. Partner Sammy S. Nabulsi argued the case in the SJC for the City and the soccer team in April 2026. Congratulations to Rose Law Partners attorneys Sammy S. Nabulsi, Alan D. Rose, and Sara Levien on this well-earned win!
We extend our congratulations to the City of Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu, Boston Public Schools students, the National Women’s Soccer League team Boston Legacy FC, Goulston & Storrs attorneys Gary M. Ronan and John F. White III, and Verrill Dana LLP attorneys Christopher C. Tsouros, Lauren C. Galvin and Mary Petronio. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this victory.
Read more about the decision in The Boston Globe here. The SJC's full opinion is available here.
