World Cup fans to pay $150 for New York stadium train ticket - Official

New Jersey commuters are facing a staggering $150 price tag for a round-trip train ticket to the World Cup matches at Meadowlands Stadium, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from state officials. NJ Transit President Kris Kolluri confirmed the exorbitant fare, which stands in stark contrast to the usual $12.90 charge for the 36-mile journey.

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We are going to charge $150 for our round-trip ticket on our system. So from New York to MetLife, MetLife back to New York.

Governor Mikie Sherrill and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer have publicly denounced the price hike, placing the blame squarely on FIFA. Sherrill argued that New Jersey shouldn't bear the $48 million safety bill for the eight games, especially when FIFA stands to profit billions. She asserted that FIFA should be responsible for the transportation costs, not the state's commuters.

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I won’t stick New Jersey commuters for that tab for years to come, that’s not fair.

FIFA, however, has pushed back, citing host city agreements that supposedly required free transportation for fans. They also pointed to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where fans used the Doha Metro for free with their matchday tickets. FIFA expressed surprise at the New Jersey governor's stance and highlighted the significant economic impact the World Cup will bring to North America.

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So here’s the bottom line: Fifa should pay for the rides, but if they don’t, I’m not going to let New Jersey commuters get taken for one.

This situation underscores a growing tension between local authorities and FIFA over the financial burdens associated with hosting major international sporting events. While the World Cup promises economic benefits, the question of who shoulders the costs for essential services like transportation remains a contentious issue, with New Jersey officials determined not to let their residents be overcharged.

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FIFA should foot the bill for transport costs to World Cup venues.