World Cup transport prices slashed after fan backlash

Thomas Concannon, leader of the Football Supporters’ Association England fan group, previously criticised “astronomical” event pricing, which he described as “completely out of the norm”.

MetLife Stadium, which will be known as New York/New Jersey Stadium during the World Cup as part of Fifa’s policy on corporate-sponsored names, will host eight matches, including the final and one of England’s Group L games.

Rail journeys from Penn Station in Manhattan to the venue, which is about 18 miles, are normally $12.90 (£9.50) for a return fare.

New Jersey governor Mikie Sherril previously criticised FIFA’s refusal to subsidise transport at the event and insisted local taxpayers would not foot the bill.

Travel at the World Cups in Russia and Qatar was free, and the USA had committed to offering the same perk in its 2018 host agreement.

In a tweak to the agreement made in 2023, it was decided that supporters would be able to travel at cost.

Responding to criticism, FIFA also claimed there was no precedent for transport price rises for a major event at MetLife Stadium.

In a social media post on Tuesday, Sherril said commercial sponsorship meant the price for the 30-minute train journey could be cut.

“Good news: Ahead of NJ Transit World Cup train tickets going on sale, NJ Transit is lowering ticket prices to $98 without New Jersey taxpayer money,” Sherill wrote.