Local media reported that the state of New Jersey reduced the price of a round-trip ticket to attend the World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium from $150 to $105, after the original price sparked criticism from the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).
Despite this reduction, the price still far exceeds the less than $15 that the same trip costs on a typical day, and also exceeds $80 for a round-trip ticket for the bus service provided by FIFA to the 82,500-seat stadium, which will host eight World Cup matches, including the final on July 19.
New Jersey Transportation Company CEO Chris Kolluri last month cited the need for enhanced security measures and increased ridership due to the closure of public parking around the stadium to justify the price hike.
The 2026 World Cup’s chief operating officer, Hemu Shirji, said the original price of $150 would have a “negative impact” on fans.
New Jersey Governor Mickey Sherrill previously said that FIFA should bear the transportation costs, as the New Jersey transportation company “footed a $48 million bill” to ensure the safety of fans.
