FIFA warned that the decision of the state of New Jersey to raise public transportation prices to $150 for a round trip during the 2026 World Cup matches will have a “negative impact” on fans, knowing that the usual fare for the same distance on normal days is only $15.
This huge increase comes in addition to the prices of match tickets, which may reach thousands of dollars on the secondary market. MetLife Stadium is scheduled to host eight matches, the most important of which is the final on July 19.
Chris Collori, CEO of New Jersey Transportation, explained the new price due to the significant increase in the number of passengers as a result of the closure of public parking around the stadium and the increase in expenses related to the security requirements of the tournament.
In contrast, Hemu Sherji, Chief Operating Officer of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, said that the current pricing system “will inevitably push fans to seek alternative means of transportation,” which raises “concerns about congestion and delays and reduces the economic benefits and lasting legacy that the region reaps from hosting.”
Sherji also added that “setting arbitrarily high prices and asking FIFA to bear these costs is unprecedented,” pointing out that no other world championship has faced such a demand. (Sky News)
