The price is finally right for England fans heading to the World Cup in the United States, as shuttle bus fares to MetLife Stadium have been slashed following a massive fan backlash. What was once an eye-watering $80 (£59) ride from New York City to the New Jersey venue is now just $20 (£15)—a full 75% discount that feels like a victory for the traveling supporters.
New York state governor Kathy Hochul announced the dramatic reduction on social media, stating the move was made to ensure the World Cup is "as accessible as possible." The change comes after England fans voiced their frustration over the initially steep transport costs, which many felt were out of touch with the spirit of the tournament.
One lifelong England supporter, Billy Grant, didn't mince words when comparing the prices to his recent experience at the Euro 2024 final in Berlin. "I have to admit, when they announced the $100 Boston train, that was the first one—I was like, 'I'm not being funny, but that's taking the mick,'" Grant said. "That train is probably more than how much I paid for the Euros final. So it's costing me more to get to the stadium in America than to watch the final in Germany. Then the New York one is $150, and I'm thinking, 'this is just getting ridiculous.' They're rinsing you to go into the stadiums, then they're double rinsing you to actually get there."
The relief doesn't stop at the bus terminal. New Jersey governor Mikie Sherrill confirmed that NJ Transit train fares have also been cut, dropping from an initial $150 (£111) for a return journey to a more manageable $98 (£73). These tickets are set to go on sale Wednesday, giving fans another affordable option to reach the action.
Sherrill had previously pointed the finger at FIFA, noting that the state "inherited an agreement where FIFA is providing zero dollars for transportation"—a comment that FIFA said it was "surprised" by. Still, for the fans heading to the Three Lions' clash against Panama on June 27, the focus is now on the game, not the cost of getting there. As a bonus, Governor Hochul added that 20% of the shuttle bus tickets will be reserved for New York residents, ensuring locals can also join the party without breaking the bank.