New Jersey’s decision to charge $150 for round-trip tickets to World Cup matches will have a «chilling effect» on fans, FIFA warned, as the fare represents a tenfold increase on the usual $15 for the route.
The dramatic price increase increases the cost of World Cup match tickets, which can reach thousands of dollars, especially on the resale market. MetLife Stadium will host eight matches, including the July 19 final.
New Jersey Transit CEO Kris Kolluri had defended the price, citing higher passenger volumes due to closed public parking around the stadium and higher costs due to World Cup safety requirements.
Heimo Schirgi, the Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup, said the price increase would force fans to look at alternative options.
«NJ Transit’s current pricing model will have a chilling effect. Higher fares will inevitably push fans toward alternative transportation options,» Schirgi said in a statement.
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“This increases concerns about traffic congestion and late arrivals and creates wider ripple effects that ultimately reduce the economic benefit and lasting legacy that the entire region can gain from hosting the World Cup.
«Furthermore, arbitrarily setting higher prices and demanding that FIFA cover these costs is unprecedented. No other global event, concert or major sports promoter has faced such a demand.»
Governor says: ‘FIFA MUST PAY’
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill previously said NJ TRANSIT was “stuck with a $48 million bill” to ensure fan safety, while FIFA made $11 billion.
«I’m not going to saddle New Jersey commuters with that bill for years to come. FIFA should pay for the rides,» Sherrill said.
FIFA refuted Sherrill’s claim, saying they generated $11 billion in revenue, and no profits.
«FIFA has always been a non-profit organization according to our statutes. The revenues from the FIFA World Cup are reinvested in the development of the game of football, especially for youth and women, worldwide,» Schirgi added.
“Finally, we applaud our host city partners across the country who have embraced this opportunity to showcase their region to visitors by offering low-cost and often unchanged public transportation fares.”
Published on April 18, 2026
