TRANSPORT FARES FOR WORLD CUP SLASHED IN NEW JERSEY AFTER FAN OUTCRY

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By; Ganiyat Sunmola

Transport costs for matches at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States have been reduced following strong backlash from fans over what were initially described as excessively high fares.

According to BBC Sport, prices for train and shuttle services to MetLife Stadium—set to be renamed New York/New Jersey Stadium during the tournament—were originally fixed at levels widely criticised by supporters as far above normal rates.

Following the outcry, rail ticket prices were reduced to $98 (about £73), while shuttle bus fares were also cut to $20 (around £15).

The stadium is scheduled to host eight World Cup matches, including a group-stage game involving England and a semi-final.

Earlier, the Football Supporters’ Association England representative, Thomas Concannon, described the initial prices as “astronomical” and far beyond standard transport costs.

For context, a return train journey from Penn Station in Manhattan to the stadium typically costs about $12.90 (£9.50), highlighting the scale of the original pricing.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill said the revised fares were made possible through commercial sponsorship, meaning no taxpayer funds would be used. She added that the adjustments were aimed at making travel more affordable for fans.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul also welcomed the changes, noting that access to the tournament should be affordable for supporters. She confirmed a 75% reduction in round-trip bus fares and said some tickets would be reserved for New York residents.

Despite the price cuts in New Jersey, concerns remain over transport costs in other host cities, particularly Boston, where fans are expected to face higher-than-usual fares.

England and Scotland supporters are among those expected to be affected, as fixtures will be played across multiple venues in the United States during the tournament.

The revisions come amid ongoing scrutiny of affordability and logistics ahead of the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup across North America.