FIFA Calls for Cost-Price Match-Day Transit for 2026 World Cup Ticket Holders

Overview

• FIFA said ticket holders and accredited staff should access match-day transport at cost price and noted it scaled back a 2018 plan for free rides in a 2023 update.
• The organization said it helped host cities win $100 million in U.S. transit grants and expressed surprise at New Jersey’s plan to load costs onto passengers.
• Transit proposals reported by The Athletic would charge more than $100 round trip between Manhattan and MetLife Stadium and $80 between Boston and Foxborough, with New Jersey’s match-day operations estimated at $48 million.
• Senior officials including Sen. Chuck Schumer and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul criticized the sharp fare hikes, while Mikie Sherrill said taxpayers in New Jersey should not carry the bill.
• Fans also face higher ticket prices after FIFA introduced a new front‑row category that can reach about $3,400 for some games, and hotel data show many U.S. host cities have cut room rates as FIFA cancels thousands of reserved nights.