Fifa Blamed Over World Cup Transportation Costs

Train Fares to MetLife Stadium Soar

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has accused FIFA of contributing to the rising cost of travel for fans attending the World Cup, with train tickets to MetLife Stadium now expected to exceed $100. This marks a significant jump from the standard $12.90 return fare, creating a sevenfold increase. The state’s transportation authority plans to implement special event pricing for the 30-minute journey from Penn Station to the stadium, which will host eight matches, including the final on 19 July.

“We inherited an agreement where FIFA is providing $0 for transportation to the World Cup,” Sherrill stated on X. “While NJ TRANSIT faces a $48m bill to transport fans, FIFA is generating $11bn. I won’t let New Jersey commuters shoulder this burden for years.”

FIFA’s policy of corporate-sponsored stadium names has led to the MetLife Stadium being rebranded as New York/New Jersey Stadium during the tournament. This change coincides with similar fare hikes at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, where match-day tickets have risen to $80, compared to the usual $59. Parking costs at the stadiums are also high, with MetLife charging $225 for a space and Foxborough at $175.

FIFA Defends Its Transportation Policy

A FIFA spokesperson expressed surprise at Sherrill’s criticism, emphasizing that the 2026 Host City Agreements from 2018 originally included free transportation for all matches. However, in 2023, the organization revised the terms, allowing fans to travel “at cost” instead of offering subsidies. The spokesperson added that FIFA has supported host cities with federal funding and mobility planning, highlighting the economic benefits of the event.

“The original agreements required free transportation for fans, but recognizing the financial strain on host cities, we adjusted the requirements to ensure access at cost,” the statement noted. “FIFA is not aware of any other major event at NYNJ Stadium where organizers were obligated to cover fan travel expenses.”

The upcoming matches will impact England and Scotland supporters, with the Three Lions facing Ghana on 23 June in Foxborough and Panama on 27 June at MetLife Stadium. Scotland’s Steve Clarke’s team has two games in Foxborough, against Haiti on 13 June and Morocco on 19 June. BBC Sport reports that NY Transit will finalize the pricing details on Friday.