A leading US lawmaker, Chuck Schumer, has called on football governing body FIFA to cover public transportation costs for fans attending the 2026 World Cup after reports of steep fare increases in New Jersey.
Schumer made the appeal following a report that New Jersey Transit is considering charging more than 100 dollars for train tickets from Manhattan’s Penn Station to MetLife Stadium during the tournament, a sharp rise from the usual fare of about 12.90 dollars.
He argued that FIFA, which is expected to earn around 11 billion dollars from the World Cup, should shoulder transportation expenses instead of passing costs onto local residents and visiting fans.
“The least FIFA can do is ensure New York residents can go to the stadium without being gouged,” Schumer wrote on social media, adding that commuters should not be forced to subsidise the tournament’s revenue windfall.
The controversy has also drawn political reaction from Kathy Hochul, who criticised the proposed price hike, describing it as excessive and potentially unfair to fans seeking affordable access to matches.
Reports indicate that New Jersey Transit is facing significant operational costs, estimated at around 48 million dollars, to run additional services for the eight World Cup matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium, including the final.
However, officials say no final decision has been made regarding ticket pricing, stressing that current figures remain speculative as planning discussions continue.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has stated that taxpayers will not be directly responsible for covering transportation costs linked to the tournament, adding further pressure on organisers and transport authorities to find a funding solution.
Similar concerns have emerged in other host regions, including Boston, where public transport authorities have already confirmed increased fares for match day services to stadium venues.
The debate highlights growing tensions over infrastructure costs as the United States prepares to co host the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
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