NJ Transit cuts World Cup train fares to $105 after outcry
NJ Transit has reduced round-trip train ticket prices from New York Penn Station to MetLife Stadium for FIFA World Cup 2026 matches from $150 to $105. The agency cited additional monetary support from sponsors and other sources as enabling the cut. The change follows public backlash over the original pricing.
New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill urged FIFA to cover fan transport costs or seek private funding, prompting criticism from FIFA over the potential impact on the fan experience. A Sherrill spokesperson said the governor directed NJ Transit to pursue non-taxpayer dollars and welcomed companies offsetting fares. NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri had defended the $150 price, noting the tournament would cost the agency $48 million to transport 40,000 fans per game at $6 million each.
Kolluri explained that regular $12.90 fares would force commuters to subsidize 92 percent of the $48 million total. MetLife Stadium has banned parking and limited ride-sharing, boosting reliance on NJ Transit. New York Penn Station will restrict access to matchgoers four hours before kickoffs, with officials advising residents to avoid nonessential travel on game days.
The first match at MetLife Stadium occurs on June 13. Transit officials anticipate record ridership during the World Cup games.
