Getting to World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium by train will be less expensive than first anticipated.
NJ Transit is reducing the price of round-trip tickets from New York Penn Station to the New Jersey stadium to $105, down from the originally announced $150.
Funding Boost Enables Price Drop
According to The Athletic, NJ Transit stated that it received monetary support from “sponsors and other sources”, which allowed for the price reduction.
Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 26 NYNJ Host Committee, discussed the scope of the matches at MetLife Stadium, as well as concerns about ticket prices.
Clash Over Who Pays
New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill and FIFA were at odds after the initial prices were announced. Sherrill suggested FIFA should cover the cost of train tickets.
FIFA criticised Sherrill’s plan as “unprecedented” and warned that the expensive train tickets would negatively impact the fan experience.
A spokesperson for Sherrill stated that the governor wants FIFA to contribute to transporting fans to World Cup games. Since that hasn’t happened, she directed NJ Transit to seek private and non-taxpayer funding to lower the fare.
The spokesperson added that the governor appreciates the companies that have helped lower costs for ticket holders and will continue to ensure the World Cup benefits fans and all New Jersey residents.
NJ Transit Defends Original Fare
NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri defended the original $150 train ticket price, stating that New Jersey commuters should not bear the burden of the public transportation company’s costs.
Kolluri reiterated that the tournament will cost NJ Transit $48 million and it is an exciting moment for New Jersey to showcase its diversity and economic standing.
Kolluri stated that New Jersey commuters cannot and will not subsidise the movement of fans going to the game.
He said that to move 40,000 people and cover the $6 million cost per game, a $150 charge was necessary.
Kolluri explained that if the regular $12.90 fare was used, commuters would subsidise 92% of the $48 million bill.
Transport Challenges
Parking will be prohibited at MetLife Stadium, and ride-sharing will be limited. This is expected to increase NJ Transit commutes.
Transit officials are preparing for an unprecedented number of commutes.
- Original round-trip train ticket price: $150
- New round-trip train ticket price: $105
- Cost of the tournament to NJ Transit: $48 million
NJ Transit riders get off a train at New York Penn Station in June 2025.