World Cup: New Jersey governor slams FIFA over $100 train tickets

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has criticised FIFA following reports that fans could be charged more than $100 for return train tickets to 2026 World Cup matches this summer.

According to reports, NJ Transit is considering special event pricing for the 30-minute journey from New York’s Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, which will host eight matches, including the final.

Read Also: FIFA faces backlash as 2026 World Cup final tickets hit record $11,000

The proposed fare would represent a sharp increase from the usual $12.90 return ticket, with no concessions planned for children, older or people with disabilities. However, NJ Transit has said pricing is yet to be finalised, with a decision expected soon.

Sherrill calls for FIFA intervention

Sherrill argued that FIFA should bear the cost of transporting fans, noting the governing body’s substantial revenues from the tournament.

“We inherited an agreement where FIFA is providing $0 for transportation to the World Cup,” she said in a post on X.

“While NJ Transit is facing a $48 million bill to safely move fans, FIFA is making $11 billion. I’m not going to place that burden on New Jersey commuters.”

She added that if FIFA does not step in, the state will seek to protect local taxpayers from long-term financial impact.

Rising costs across host cities

The controversy comes amid wider concerns over transport costs for the 2026 tournament. At Gillette Stadium, rail fares for matchdays have reportedly risen to $80, while coach services could cost up to $95.

FIFA responds to criticism

In response, FIFA said it was “surprised” by the governor’s remarks, insisting that fans are expected to travel “at cost.” The organisation noted that host city agreements were revised in 2023 to ease financial pressure, requiring only that ticket holders have access to transport at cost rather than free of charge.

FIFA also highlighted its role in supporting transport planning and securing federal funding, adding that previous major events at the venue did not require organisers to subsidise fan travel.
Impact on fans
The rising costs are likely to affect travelling supporters, including those following England and Scotland, with matches scheduled in both New Jersey and Foxborough. Parking fees are also steep, with spaces at MetLife priced at $225 and $175 at Foxborough.