Sharp increases for matchday travel
Football supporters have voiced anger after reports that transit agencies in the United States plan to significantly raise fares during the 2026 World Cup.
In the New York–New Jersey region, New Jersey Transit is reportedly considering charging more than $100 for a round-trip ticket between Penn Station in Manhattan and MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on matchdays. The usual return fare for the roughly 30-minute journey is $12.90.
In Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority confirmed that special event trains to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough will cost $80 round trip, compared with the standard event-day price of $20.
Supporters accuse organizers of pricing out fans
Fan groups from Europe and the United States have criticized what they describe as excessive transport surcharges. Guillaume Aupretre, representing France’s main supporters’ group, said that in previous tournaments, transportation was often included in the ticket price or offered at discounted rates.
England’s Free Lions supporters group also condemned the move on social media, questioning why costs appear to be rising beyond standard levels.
France is scheduled to play its three Group I matches in Boston and New Jersey, while England will also feature at both venues.
Political leaders push back
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill blamed FIFA for the situation, citing a projected $48 million cost for transporting fans to eight matches at MetLife Stadium. She argued that local commuters should not bear the long-term burden.
U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer echoed that sentiment, stating that FIFA should assume responsibility for matchday transport costs.
FIFA responded that initial host agreements required free transportation but were later revised to allow transport to be offered “at cost.” The governing body said it was surprised by criticism from state officials and noted that organizers of other major events have not historically covered fan transportation expenses.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul also questioned the proposed fare levels, calling the reported $100 price “awfully high.”
Federal funding and uneven policies
Approximately $100 million in federal funding has been allocated to host cities to support transit operations. Reports indicate that Boston and Massachusetts received $8.7 million, while the New York–New Jersey region received $10.4 million. Los Angeles obtained $9.6 million.
In contrast to the Northeast, Los Angeles’ transit agency has pledged not to increase standard fares for travel to SoFi Stadium, where a typical round trip from downtown costs about $3.50.
New Jersey Transit has stated that no final decision on World Cup pricing has been made, describing reports as unconfirmed speculation. Still, the prospect of steep fare hikes has already sparked widespread debate as the tournament approaches.