Photo: MARCO BERTORELLO / AFP / Getty Images
More details about the transportation plans for the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, were revealed today. The plans include a significant increase in transit fares, sparking controversy among fans and officials. NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri defended the decision to charge $150 for a round-trip train ticket, a steep rise from the usual $12.90 fare. The increased fare is intended to cover the $48 million cost associated with transporting fans during the tournament.
According to NJ Transit, the transportation plan involves using a coordinated network of shuttle buses, rail services, and rideshare options to move approximately 78,000 spectators per match. Shuttle bus tickets are priced at $80, while parking at the nearby American Dream Mall will cost $225. The plan also includes hours-long closures at Penn Station before matches and potential train terminations at Newark Penn Station.
Governor Mikie Sherrill criticized FIFA for not contributing to the transportation costs, despite the organization expecting to earn $11 billion from the event. She stated that the state would not subsidize the World Cup at the expense of New Jersey commuters. FIFA, however, argued that the high transit prices could deter fans and diminish the economic benefits of hosting the World Cup.
The tournament, which includes eight matches at MetLife Stadium, will commence on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Fans are encouraged to purchase transportation tickets in advance, as they will not be available on match days. For more information, fans can visit New Jersey Monitor and ESPN.
Photo Credit: Getty Images