FIFA has warned, according to Reuters, that New Jersey's decision to charge $150 for a round-trip transit fare to World Cup matches will have a "chilling effect" on fans attending games at MetLife Stadium. The fare represents a tenfold increase from the standard $15 charge for the route, adding to the already steep cost of attending matches, with tickets on the resale market running into the thousands of dollars. Heimo Schirgi, Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup, said the pricing would push fans toward alternative transport, raising concerns about congestion and late arrivals that

FIFA has warned, according to Reuters, that New Jersey's decision to charge $150 for a round-trip transit fare to World Cup matches will have a "chilling effect" on fans attending games at MetLife Stadium.

The fare represents a tenfold increase from the standard $15 charge for the route, adding to the already steep cost of attending matches, with tickets on the resale market running into the thousands of dollars.

Heimo Schirgi, Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup, said the pricing would push fans toward alternative transport, raising concerns about congestion and late arrivals that could undermine the economic benefits of hosting the tournament.

"Furthermore, to arbitrarily set elevated prices and demand FIFA absorb these costs is unprecedented," Schirgi said in a statement. "No other global event, concert or major sporting promoter has faced such a demand."

NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri defended the pricing, citing higher passenger volumes due to closed public parking around the stadium and increased security costs associated with the World Cup.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill framed the dispute as a matter of financial fairness, arguing that NJ Transit had been left with a $48 million bill to ensure fan safety while FIFA was generating $11 billion in revenue.

"I'm not going to stick New Jersey commuters with that tab for years to come," Sherrill said. "FIFA should pay for the rides."

FIFA rejected the characterisation, clarifying that the $11 billion figure represents revenue, not profit, and reaffirming its status as a not-for-profit organisation. Schirgi added that funds from the World Cup are reinvested into developing football globally, particularly for youth and women.

MetLife Stadium is scheduled to host eight matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the final on July 19.

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