World Cup Transport Costs: Fans Face Astronomical Prices

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is facing growing criticism over transportation costs for fans attending matches in the United States, with reports indicating that train tickets to key venues are being priced far above normal rates, prompting accusations of price gouging from supporter groups.

According to multiple reports, fans traveling to New York/New Jersey for World Cup matches will be charged $150 for a 30-minute train journey from Penn Station in Manhattan to MetLife Stadium, a venue that will host eight matches including an England group game and the final on 19 July. This represents an increase of more than 11 times the usual return fare of $12.90 for the same route.

The Football Supporters’ Association has condemned the pricing, with its England fans’ group leader Thomas Concannon describing the charges as “incredibly disappointing” and stating that fans are being “fleeced” and “gouged” by the exorbitant costs. He emphasized that the pricing is “completely out of the norm from previous tournaments” and undermines efforts to welcome international visitors.

Similar concerns have been raised regarding travel to other venues. Reports indicate that train fares for matches at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, outside Boston, have been increased to $80, while shuttle bus tickets to MetLife Stadium are priced at $80. Both train and bus tickets for the New York/New Jersey venue are non-transferable and non-refundable, with no concession prices available for children or seniors, who must also pay the full $150 fare.

Initial reports had suggested the train fare might be set at $100, but NJ Transit announced the final price would be higher. The stadium will be referred to as New York/New Jersey Stadium during the tournament as part of FIFA’s policy on corporate-sponsored naming rights.

The high transportation costs come on top of already elevated match ticket prices, compounding the financial burden on fans attending the tournament. Concannon noted that while some level of increased pricing might be expected, the current levels exceed what supporters consider reasonable and risk making attendees feel unwelcome.

As the tournament approaches, transportation pricing remains a contentious issue, with fan organizations continuing to call for more reasonable fares to ensure accessibility for supporters from around the world.