SCHUMER DEMANDS FIFA PAY TRANSIT BILLS AMID FARE HIKE ROW
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By: Fasasi Hammad
A senior U.S. lawmaker, Chuck Schumer, has urged FIFA to cover public transportation costs for the World Cup after reports of steep fare increases in New Jersey.
Schumer, a Democrat, made the call on X, arguing that FIFA — expected to generate about $11 billion from the tournament — should bear the cost of transporting fans to match venues.
He was reacting to a report by The Athletic, which revealed that New Jersey Transit is considering charging more than $100 for trips between Penn Station in Manhattan and MetLife Stadium during the tournament. The same journey typically costs $12.90 for a return ticket.
Schumer criticized the proposed increase, saying it would unfairly burden local residents and commuters.
“The least FIFA can do is ensure New York residents can attend matches without being overcharged,” he said, insisting the organization should fund transport costs for host cities and states rather than passing them on to the public.
Kathy Hochul also weighed in, expressing concern over affordability and accessibility. She described the reported fares as excessive, noting that charging over $100 for a short train ride is unreasonable.
Meanwhile, New Jersey Transit has yet to confirm any final pricing decision. A spokesperson told The Athletic that ticket costs for match-day travel remain undecided, dismissing circulating figures as speculation.
The report also indicated that operating transport services for the eight matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium — including the final — could cost around $48 million.
However, Mikie Sherrill has made it clear that the state will not shift the financial burden onto taxpayers, insisting that residents should not be made to subsidize the event.
Concerns over transport fare increases have also surfaced in Boston, where the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority recently confirmed that return trips to Gillette Stadium during the World Cup could rise to $80, up from the usual $20.
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