Fans protest World Cup 2026 transport costs exceeding $100

Fans attending the 2026 World Cup are expressing outrage over what they deem "exorbitant" public transportation costs, with some short trips reportedly exceeding $100. This situation has sparked widespread discontent among supporters eager to follow their teams across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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This is shameful. In previous tournaments, transportation was either included in the ticket price or offered at very low prices for ticket holders. They continue to pile on additional costs without the slightest consideration for the fans.

Reports from "The Athletic" reveal that transport authorities in New Jersey plan to charge fans over $100 for a round trip from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium, a journey that typically costs a mere $12.90. Similarly, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has confirmed that round-trip tickets from Boston to Gillette Stadium will cost $80, a stark contrast to the usual $20 on match days. These price hikes have led to accusations of exploitation, with fan groups like "Les Lions" (French team supporters) and "Free Lions" (England supporters) decrying the lack of consideration for fans.

Guillaume Obreiter, spokesperson for the French national team supporters' association, stated, "This is shameful. In previous tournaments, transportation was either included in the ticket price or offered at very low prices for ticket holders." He accused FIFA of prioritizing wealthy attendees over its most loyal fans. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has also voiced strong criticism, placing responsibility on FIFA for the inflated prices. She highlighted a $48 million bill the state faces for ensuring fan safety at the eight matches hosted at MetLife Stadium.

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I will not burden New Jersey commuters with these costs for years to come; this is not fair. The bottom line is: FIFA must cover the transportation costs, otherwise I will not allow New Jersey residents to be exploited.

Governor Murphy declared, "I will not burden New Jersey commuters with these costs for years to come; this is not fair." She asserted that FIFA, projected to earn $11 billion from the World Cup, should bear the transportation expenses. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer echoed this sentiment, urging FIFA to cover the costs. FIFA, facing backlash, issued a statement expressing "astonishment" at New Jersey's stance, noting that original agreements with host cities included free fan transportation. They claim renegotiations stipulated cost-price transport on match days and are unaware of other major events where organizers were asked to pay for fan transport. New York Governor Kathy Hochul also deemed the proposed fares "outrageous."

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It seems to me that charging more than $100 for a short train ride is outrageous.