Getting to MetLife Stadium to attend the 2026 World Cup matches could cost much more than expected. NJ Transit confirmed that round-trip train fares from Manhattan’s Penn Station to the stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will be priced up to $150 per game, down from the usual fare of $12.90 for a 15-minute ride.
The measure generated criticism from authorities and fans, who consider the increase excessive for a global event. NJ Transit justified the decision by the operating costs of the tournament, as it plans to invest US$62 million in transporting fans during the eight games that MetLife Stadium will host, including the final on July 19.
Although the president of NJ Transit, Kris Kolluri, assured that they seek to recover costs and not speculate on prices, pressure from governors and legislators led to reducing the fare to US$105 round trip. Even so, the cost is still considerably high for a short trip.
The alternatives are not cheap either. Shuttle buses from Midtown Manhattan will cost $80 round-trip, while parking at the nearby American Dream Mall is sold in advance for $225. The authorities estimate that around 40,000 fans will use public transportation for each match, making mobility one of the main logistical challenges of the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA at the center of the controversy
Democratic lawmakers from New York and New Jersey asked FIFA to assume part of the transportation costs for the 2026 World Cup. In a letter sent to Gianni Infantino, they noted that, with projected revenues exceeding $11 billion, the organization should help subsidize fan fares.
FIFA responded that it worked for years with the host cities on mobility plans and expressed surprise at the criticism from authorities in New Jersey, where eight matches will be played, including the final.
The contrast with other venues is evident. While in New Jersey the transfer to MetLife Stadium could cost up to US$105 round trip, cities such as Los Angeles, Houston and Philadelphia will maintain public transportation rates between US$1.25 and US$2.90 during the tournament.