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Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has expressed strong disapproval over the $150 train fare announced by NJ Transit for fans traveling to the World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The fare is a significant increase from the usual $12.90 for the 15-minute journey from Manhattan, and Schumer is urging FIFA to cover the cost.
NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri explained that the fare hike is necessary to cover the $48 million transportation budget for the event. Schumer, however, argues that FIFA, which is expected to earn approximately $11 billion from the tournament, should absorb the cost instead. He emphasized that the increased fare is unfair to New York fans and described it as "a ripoff, plain and simple."
Schumer's call for FIFA to cover the fare comes amid concerns about the lack of parking at MetLife Stadium and the high cost of alternative transportation options, such as an $80 shuttle bus. The fare hike has sparked outrage among soccer fans, who are already facing high ticket prices for the matches.
FIFA has responded by stating that setting elevated prices and demanding they absorb these costs is unprecedented. They argue that the pricing model aims to minimize congestion and ensure a positive fan experience.
The World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium will take place from June 13 to July 19, and Schumer continues to advocate for a solution that does not burden fans with exorbitant transportation costs.
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