In a major win for soccer fans heading to the 2026 World Cup, transport prices to matches at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey have been slashed following widespread backlash over what many called "astronomical" costs. The price of a train ticket from Manhattan has been cut from $150 to $98, while shuttle bus fares have dropped dramatically from $80 to just $20.
Thomas Concannon, leader of the Football Supporters' Association England fan group, had previously criticized the initial pricing as "completely out of the norm" for a major sporting event. The price drop comes as a relief to fans who were facing fares nearly 12 times higher than the standard $12.90 return journey from Penn Station to the stadium—a distance of just 18 miles.
MetLife Stadium, which will be rebranded as New York/New Jersey Stadium for the tournament due to FIFA's corporate sponsorship policies, is set to host eight matches including the final and one of England's Group L games. The venue is the centerpiece of the tournament's East Coast presence, and getting fans there affordably has become a top priority.
The controversy erupted after it was revealed that travel at previous World Cups in Russia and Qatar was free, and the U.S. had originally committed to offering the same perk in its 2018 host agreement. However, a 2023 tweak to the agreement shifted costs to fans, sparking outrage. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherril had previously criticized FIFA's refusal to subsidize transport, insisting local taxpayers would not foot the bill.
In a social media post announcing the price cuts, Sherril credited commercial sponsorship for making the reduction possible without using taxpayer money. "Getting to the World Cup should be as accessible as possible," echoed New York Governor Kathy Hochul, signaling a united front between the two states to ensure fans aren't priced out of the experience.
For soccer enthusiasts planning their tournament experience, this is a welcome reminder that the spirit of the game extends beyond the pitch—and that sometimes, the fans' voice can change the game off it too.