Sharp Fare Increases Spark Dispute
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has called on Fifa to subsidize transport costs for fans attending this summer’s World Cup matches, after reports that rail fares to MetLife Stadium could exceed $100 for a return trip.
The proposed special event pricing from NJ Transit would apply to the 30-minute journey between New York’s Penn Station and the stadium in New Jersey. The standard return fare is currently $12.90. No concession discounts for children or seniors are expected.
MetLife Stadium, to be temporarily branded as New York/New Jersey Stadium during the tournament under Fifa naming policies, is scheduled to host eight matches, including the final on 19 July.
State Pushback Over Funding
Sherrill said the state inherited an agreement under which Fifa would contribute nothing toward transportation costs, despite NJ Transit facing what she described as a $48 million bill to manage matchday logistics.
In public comments, the governor argued that taxpayers and commuters should not shoulder the burden while Fifa generates billions in tournament revenue. She maintained that if Fifa declines to contribute, New Jersey will not absorb long-term costs linked to the event.
Rail pricing details are expected to be formally confirmed by NJ Transit.
Fifa Response and Host Agreements
A Fifa spokesperson said the organization was surprised by the criticism, noting that updated host agreements require ticket holders to access transport “at cost” rather than free of charge. The governing body stated that earlier agreements signed in 2018 had included provisions for complimentary travel but were revised in 2023 to ease financial pressure on host cities.
Fifa also said it has worked with host cities to secure federal funding support for mobility planning and emphasized the broader economic impact expected from the tournament.
Impact on Fans
High transport costs are not limited to New Jersey. Train fares to matches at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, have reportedly risen to $80, with coach services priced at $95.
Parking fees are also elevated, with spaces at MetLife costing $225 per vehicle and Foxborough charging $175.
The increases are expected to affect supporters traveling for group-stage matches, including fixtures involving England and Scotland in New Jersey and Massachusetts.
