Commentary: Why is getting to a World Cup game so hard?

Attending a World Cup game at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium presents a unique set of logistical hurdles for fans, contrasting sharply with the accessibility of other major tournament venues. Unlike the Maracana in Rio or stadiums in Moscow and Lusail, reaching the New Jersey venue is fraught with difficulties, including high costs and restricted movement options.

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Walking and biking are “illegal”, according to local authorities.

The stadium, officially renamed New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament, is situated in the Meadowlands, an area developed in the 1970s with a 20th-century, car-dominated design. It is surrounded by high-speed freeways, with chain-link fences and concrete medians actively preventing pedestrians from crossing. Signs in nearby hotels even warn guests about the dangers of walking in the area.

Despite past proposals for a comprehensive bikeway network and even claims by a former builder about installed bike racks, the reality is that cycling to the stadium is practically impossible. The stadium's press office stated that bike racks were never installed and that bicycling is not feasible due to the surrounding highways where it is banned. The idea of walking is equally discouraged, with authorities deeming it illegal.

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It was built as a suburban-style drive-in, park, drive-out stadium.

Adding to the access challenges, FIFA has banned private vehicle traffic to the stadium. This decision, intended to create space for security and corporate sponsor booths, further limits options for fans. The combination of limited public transport, high fares, restricted bus seats, and the prohibition of walking or cycling makes getting to the games a significant undertaking.

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Bike racks have never been installed at the stadium, nor have visitors ever been encouraged to cycle.