Summary
Public transportation prices for the 2026 World Cup games in New Jersey are expected to rise sharply, with tickets possibly costing over $100 each way. Several US officials, including New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and Senator Chuck Schumer, have asked FIFA to help cover these costs, while FIFA states it has adjusted agreements to keep transport affordable.
Key Facts
- Train tickets from New York’s Penn Station to MetLife Stadium may cost more than $100 for World Cup games, up from the usual $12.90.
- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and Senator Chuck Schumer have called on FIFA to pay transportation costs instead of local commuters and taxpayers.
- Officials say FIFA will make about $11 billion from the World Cup but currently does not pay for public transport.
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul also expressed concern that $100 fares are too high for short rides.
- Similar high transport prices are planned in Massachusetts, with train tickets costing $80 and bus rides up to $95.
- FIFA says that original agreements called for free transportation but were changed in 2023 to allow access at cost.
- FIFA claims it has worked with host cities and supported federal funding for transportation plans.
- The World Cup is expected to bring millions of fans and economic benefits to the host cities in North America.
