Trenton, United States. FIFA has warned that New Jersey’s plan to charge $150 for round-trip public transit to World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium could have a “chilling effect” on fans, calling the increase unprecedented. New Jersey Transit officials have defended the fare, citing higher passenger volumes and added security requirements.
Fare increase and match context
The proposed round-trip fare represents a 10-fold increase from the usual $15 for the route. The higher transit cost adds to the expense of World Cup match tickets, which can reach thousands of dollars, particularly on the resale market.
MetLife Stadium is set to host eight matches, including the July 19 final.
New Jersey Transit’s justification
New Jersey Transit CEO Kris Kolluri defended the pricing, pointing to higher passenger volumes driven by closed public parking around the stadium and increased costs linked to World Cup security requirements.
FIFA’s response and concerns
Heimo Schirgi, the Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup, said the price increase would force fans to consider alternative options.
“The NJ Transit current pricing model will have a chilling effect. Elevated fares inevitably push fans toward alternative transportation options,” Schirgi said in a statement.
He added that this “increases concerns of congestion, late arrivals, and creates broader ripple effects that ultimately diminish the economic benefit and lasting legacy the entire region stands to gain from hosting the World Cup.”
Schirgi also said, “Furthermore, to arbitrarily set elevated prices and demand FIFA absorb these costs is unprecedented. No other global event, concert or major sporting promoter has faced such a demand.”
Dispute over costs and revenue
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill previously said NJ TRANSIT had been “stuck with a $48-million bill” to ensure fan safety while FIFA was making $11 billion.
“I’m not going to stick New Jersey commuters with that tab for years to come. FIFA should pay for the rides,” Sherrill said.
FIFA refuted Sherrill’s claim, saying they were generating $11 billion in revenue, not profits.
How do you think higher transit fares could affect how fans travel to MetLife Stadium for World Cup matches?