World Cup Fans Face $100 Train Fares Just To Get To Games
Fans heading to the 2026 World Cup in the United States could be paying more than $100 just to travel to matches.
In New Jersey, plans are in place to introduce special event pricing for trains running between New York’s Penn Station and MetLife Stadium, which is hosting eight matches during the World Cup, including the final on 19th July. The short journey, which usually costs $12.90 for a return ticket, is expected to jump to more than $100 during the tournament. Unlike normal services, there would be no discounted fares for children, seniors or disabled passengers.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has pushed back strongly against the idea, saying that local residents should not be left footing the bill. “We inherited an agreement where Fifa is providing $0 for transportation to the World Cup,” she said, adding: “I'm not going to stick New Jersey commuters with that tab for years to come. Fifa should pay for the rides. But if they don't - I'm not going to let New Jersey get taken for one.”
Transport officials say the steep prices are not about making profit but covering the cost of running services for the eight matches at the stadium. The overall bill is expected to reach around $48 million, driven in part by tight security requirements and the scale of the event.
FIFA, however, has pushed back against the criticism. A spokesperson said they were “surprised” by the comments and pointed out that fans should be able to travel “at cost”. They also noted that organisers are not typically responsible for transport expenses at major events.
The issue isn’t limited to New Jersey. In Massachusetts, train fares to matches at Gillette Stadium, which is hosting seven World Cup games, have already been confirmed at $80 return, with bus options costing even more. Across host cities, transport costs are becoming another major expense on top of already high ticket prices and accommodation.
Some fans and campaigners say that the situation is unfair, especially when compared to previous tournaments. At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and Euro 2024 in Germany, match tickets included free public transport on game days.
There are also concerns about access. Rail services are expected to be the main way for tens of thousands of fans to reach MetLife Stadium, with parking at the stadium itself being limited and expensive. On match days, only ticket holders will be allowed into certain parts of Penn Station, and regular commuters could face restrictions hours before kick-off.
Politicians beyond New Jersey have also weighed in. Senator Chuck Schumer said: “The least FIFA can do is ensure New York residents can go to the stadium without being gouged at the turnstile. I am demanding FIFA step up and cover transportation costs for host cities and states.”
With transport prices yet to be finalised, frustration is already building among supporters who feel that the cost of attending the World Cup is quickly adding up.
