A senior United States lawmaker has called on FIFA to assume responsibility for public transportation costs during the 2026 World Cup, following reports of steep fare increases in New Jersey. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Tuesday that the governing body of world football, which expects to earn $11 billion from the tournament, should ensure fans are not burdened with inflated travel expenses.
Schumer’s remarks came after The Athletic reported that New Jersey Transit is considering charging more than $100 for round‑trip tickets between Penn Station in Manhattan and MetLife Stadium, where eight matches, including the final on July 19, will be played. The current fare for the journey is $12.90.
“FIFA is set to reap nearly $11 billion from this summer’s World Cup, yet New York area commuters and residents are being handed the bill,” Schumer wrote on X. He argued that local residents should not subsidize FIFA’s profits and demanded that the organization cover transportation costs for host cities and states. “The least FIFA can do is ensure New York residents can go to the stadium without being gouged at the turnstile,” he added.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul also expressed concern, saying the World Cup should remain affordable and accessible. “Charging over $100 for a short train ride sounds awfully high to me,” she posted on X.
A spokesperson for New Jersey Transit told The Athletic that no final decision had been made on ticket pricing. “The ticket prices for match day travel have not been finalised, and any reference to cost would be unconfirmed speculation,” the spokesperson said.
According to the report, the cost of providing services for the tournament could reach $48 million. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill stated that taxpayers would not bear the expense. “We are not going to be paying for moving the people who are viewing the World Cup on the back of New Jersey taxpayers and New Jersey commuters,” she said.
The issue of fare hikes is not limited to New Jersey. Earlier this month, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority confirmed that return tickets from Boston to Gillette Stadium would cost $80 during the World Cup, compared to the usual $20.
The debate highlights the financial pressures associated with hosting major sporting events. While FIFA stands to generate record revenues, local authorities face high costs in managing transportation, security, and infrastructure. Lawmakers argue that these expenses should not be passed on to residents or commuters, particularly when the governing body benefits from billions in profits.
Schumer’s intervention reflects growing political scrutiny of FIFA’s role in ensuring equitable access to the tournament. His demand that the organization cover transport costs underscores concerns that the World Cup, intended as a global celebration of sport, could become inaccessible to ordinary fans due to excessive charges.
As discussions continue, the focus remains on balancing the financial realities of hosting with the need to maintain affordability. With millions expected to attend matches across North America, transportation pricing will be a critical issue for both fans and local communities.
