New Jersey’s decision to charge US$150 for transport to and from World Cup games will have a “chilling effect” on fans, FIFA warned, as the fare represents a 10-fold increase over the usual US$15 for the route.
The drastic jump in price further increases the cost for those attending World Cup games in the United States, whose tickets can cost thousands of dollars, especially on the resale market. MetLife Stadium will host eight matches, including the July 19 final.
New Jersey Transit Chief Executive Kris Kolluri defended the new prices, citing increased passenger volume — due to the closure of public parking around the stadium — and increased costs resulting from World Cup security requirements.
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Heimo Schirgi, director of operations for the 2026 World Cup, said the increase will force fans to look for alternatives.
“NJ Transit’s current pricing model will have a chilling effect. High fares inevitably push fans toward alternative transportation options,” Schirgi said in a statement.
“This increases concerns about congestion, late arrivals and creates wider ripple effects that ultimately reduce the economic benefit and lasting legacy that the entire region can gain from hosting the World Cup.”
“Furthermore, arbitrarily setting high prices and demanding that FIFA absorb these costs is unprecedented. No other global event, concert or major sports promoter has faced such a demand.”
Governor says “FIFA must pay”
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill previously said that NJ Transit had been “left with a $48 million bill” to ensure fan safety, while FIFA would be raking in $11 billion.
“I’m not going to let New Jersey commuters foot this bill for the next few years. FIFA should pay for the trips,” Sherrill said.
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FIFA disputed the governor’s statement, saying the $11 billion referred to revenue, not profit.
“FIFA has always been a non-profit organization, in accordance with our statutes. World Cup revenues are reinvested in the development of football, especially for young people and women, around the world,” added Schirgi.
“Finally, we applaud our host city partners across the country who have embraced the opportunity to showcase their regions to visitors by offering low-cost — and often flat — fares for public transportation.”
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