New York, NY (April 18, 2026)
Plans for transporting fans to FIFA World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium are drawing sharp criticism after NJ Transit confirmed that round-trip train tickets from New York to New Jersey will cost $150, far above the typical fare for the short trip.
The special pricing applies to ticket holders attending the eight matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium between mid-June and mid-July. Under the current plan, most spectators will not be permitted to park at the stadium, making public transportation the primary option for tens of thousands of attendees.
The cost of travel has quickly become a point of contention. A standard rail ticket for the same route typically costs under $15, meaning the World Cup fare represents more than a tenfold increase. Alternative options are also limited and expensive, with shuttle buses priced around $80 for a restricted number of seats, while nearby parking at the American Dream Mall is expected to exceed $200. Ride-share costs remain unpredictable and are likely to surge during peak travel times.
The transportation plan also includes temporary access restrictions at Penn Station, where portions of the facility would be reserved exclusively for World Cup ticket holders before and after matches. Rail tickets are scheduled to go on sale May 13, with approximately 40,000 seats available per match day, about half of the expected stadium capacity. An additional 10,000 shuttle seats per game are also planned.
The pricing and logistics have triggered a public dispute involving New York and New Jersey officials and FIFA, which is overseeing the tournament. Critics argue the costs place an undue burden on fans, while organizers maintain that the plan is necessary to manage large crowds and ensure smooth operations during one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
NJ Transit on Friday confirmed that round-trip train ticket prices between New York City and MetLife Stadium will increase from $12.90 to $150 during the FIFA World Cup.
At a news conference, NJ Transit officials defended the decision, saying it would cost the agency $48 million… pic.twitter.com/5WfxRaLitB
— Spectrum News NY1 (@NY1) April 17, 2026
To Recap:
Our Administration inherited an agreement where FIFA contributes $0 toward transportation for the World Cup – while also eliminating parking at MetLife Stadium.
Except for premium parking, where FIFA is charging over $200 per spot.
As a result, NJ TRANSIT must carry…
— Governor Mikie Sherrill (@GovSherrillNJ) April 16, 2026
We inherited an agreement where FIFA is providing $0 for transportation to the World Cup.
And while NJ TRANSIT is stuck with a $48 million bill to safely get fans to and from games, FIFA is making $11 billion.
I’m not going to stick New Jersey commuters with that tab for years… pic.twitter.com/pugU8davkW
— Governor Mikie Sherrill (@GovSherrillNJ) April 15, 2026