NJ Transit Sets $150 Round-Trip Train Fares for World Cup Fans to MetLife Stadium
New Jersey Transit confirmed $150 round-trip train fares from New York City to MetLife Stadium for 2026 World Cup matches, citing costs of $62 million for fan transport. Governor Mikie Sherrill stated the increase prevents burdening state commuters, while FIFA expressed surprise over the deviation from prior agreements. Other host cities plan to maintain regular fares using federal grants.
Al Jazeera90 price for the 15-minute, 14-kilometer ride to East Rutherford, New Jersey. Officials expect about 40,000 fans to use mass transit for each match, as on-site parking will not be available for most attendees.
The stadium, home to the NFL's New York Giants and New York Jets, will host eight World Cup matches, including group-stage games starting June 13 and the final on July 19. Participating teams include Brazil, France, Germany, and England.
Costs and Justification Officials
stated the total cost to transport fans over the tournament is $62 million, with outside grants covering only $14 million, leaving a $48 million shortfall.
Each match is projected to cost $6 million to move 40,000 passengers, with much of the additional fare covering security expenses. NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri told reporters the pricing aims to recoup costs without profits or gouging. Tickets will go on sale May 13 via the agency's mobile app, are non-refundable and non-transferable, and require a valid match ticket for purchase.
Story Timeline
6 events- Today — April 17, 2026
NJ Transit confirmed $150 round-trip train fares for World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium.
6 sourcesAl Jazeera · The Hill · espn.com - April 16, 2026
FIFA issued a statement expressing surprise at New Jersey's approach to fan transportation costs.
3 sourcesAl Jazeera · The Hill · espn.com - April 15, 2026
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill posted on social media suggesting FIFA should cover transportation costs.
4 sourcesAl Jazeera · espn.com · The New York Times · washingtontimes.com - Earlier this week
New York Governor Kathy Hochul objected to the high fare on X.
2 sourcesAl Jazeera · The Hill - This week
Boston officials announced $95 express bus and $80 train fares to Gillette Stadium.
3 sourcesAl Jazeera · espn.com · washingtontimes.com - 2018
Host cities signed agreements with FIFA calling for free fan transport to matches.
3 sourcesAl Jazeera · The Hill · espn.com
Potential Impact
- 01
New Jersey commuters avoid long-term financial burden from World Cup transport costs.
- 02
World Cup fans opt for $80 bus shuttles instead of trains to MetLife Stadium.
- 03
FIFA negotiates with New Jersey to cover part of the $48 million shortfall.
- 04
Ticket sales for MetLife matches decline due to high transport costs.
- 05
New York and New Jersey enhance bus services to accommodate more fans.
- 06
Other host cities receive additional federal grants to maintain low fares.
Transparency Panel
Related Stories
abcnews.go.comFormer Angels Outfielder Garret Anderson Dies at 53 After Medical Emergency
Garret Anderson, a three-time All-Star and Angels Hall of Famer, died on Thursday after a medical emergency at his home in Newport Beach, California. He spent most of his 17-year MLB career with the Angels, collecting 2,368 hits and helping the team win the 2002 World Series. The…
NewsweekSue Bird and Megan Rapinoe Announce Separation After Decade Together
Retired athletes Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe have announced their separation after 10 years as a couple. They shared a joint statement expressing mutual respect and gratitude for their shared experiences. The announcement also noted the end of their joint podcast, A Touch More.
winnipegfreepress.comFormer Angels Outfielder Garret Anderson Dies at 53 in Newport Beach
Garret Anderson, a three-time All-Star and Angels Hall of Famer, died on Thursday following a medical emergency at his home. He spent 15 of his 17 MLB seasons with the Angels, where he became the franchise's all-time hits leader. Anderson helped the team win the 2002 World Series…