Additional Coverage:
- NJ Transit reduces World Cup train ticket prices after backlash, citing more monetary support: report (foxnews.com)
Traveling to World Cup Matches at MetLife Stadium via NJ Transit Will Cost Less Than Initially Announced
Fans heading to World Cup games this summer at MetLife Stadium can expect a reduction in train ticket prices, thanks to additional funding sources. Initially, NJ Transit and the FIFA New York New Jersey Host Committee had set round-trip fares from New York Penn Station to the stadium at $150. However, the price has now been lowered to $105.
According to NJ Transit, financial support from sponsors and other partners made this discount possible. This development follows a public disagreement between New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and FIFA. Governor Sherrill had urged FIFA to cover the cost of transporting fans, a request FIFA described as “unprecedented” and warned that high ticket prices could negatively impact the fan experience.
A spokesperson for Governor Sherrill told The Athletic that since FIFA has not contributed, the governor directed NJ Transit to seek private funding to reduce fares substantially. The governor expressed appreciation for the companies that have helped lower costs and emphasized her commitment to ensuring the World Cup benefits both fans and New Jersey residents.
NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri defended the original $150 fare, explaining that the public transportation system should not bear the financial burden of hosting such a large-scale event. Kolluri highlighted that the tournament will cost NJ Transit an estimated $48 million, with each game requiring about $6 million to move approximately 40,000 fans.
“If we charged the regular $12.90 fare, New Jersey commuters would effectively subsidize 92% of the cost,” Kolluri explained. He underscored that the fare adjustment is necessary to avoid placing undue financial strain on daily commuters.
To accommodate the influx of visitors, parking at MetLife Stadium will be prohibited, and ride-sharing services will operate with limitations. Consequently, NJ Transit expects a significant increase in ridership during the World Cup matches. Additionally, New York Penn Station will restrict access to match ticket holders starting four hours before each game, and residents are encouraged to avoid nonessential NJ Transit travel on game days.
The first World Cup match at MetLife Stadium is scheduled for June 13, marking the beginning of what is expected to be an unprecedented transportation challenge for the region.