New Jersey Governor Slams FIFA Over $80 World Cup Train Fares to MetLife Stadium

Train fares for the 2026 World Cup matches at New York’s MetLife Stadium have risen sharply. NJ Transit set a round‑trip price of $80 – more than six times the normal $12 fare – after an initial $150 proposal was lowered with sponsor assistance. The state expects about 40,000 rail passengers and has prepared contingency measures, including two 600‑passenger ferries and hundreds of supplemental buses, to avoid the transport chaos seen during the 2014 Super Bowl.

Governor Mikie Sherrill criticised FIFA for not contributing to the public‑transport costs, noting NJ Transit faces $48 million in expenses while FIFA has allocated no funds. She demanded the soccer body share the financial burden, citing its support for transport in past tournaments. Supporters from Morocco reported paying around $100 for a round‑trip ticket, calling the price “criminal,” while regular commuters are barred from Penn Station during match windows. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has projected a $30 billion economic impact for the United States from the event.

The controversy highlights tension between local authorities and the tournament organizer over funding and the affordability of fan travel to the stadium.