Back to Headlines
Sports
Apr 14, 2026

NJ Transit Plans $100 Round‑Trip Fare for NYC Fans Heading to 2026 World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium

AI Summary
NJ Transit is preparing to raise the price of a round‑trip train ticket from New York’s Penn Station to MetLife Stadium to over $100 for the 2026 World Cup, a seven‑fold increase from the current $12.90 fare. The move, still pending final approval, is part of a broader effort to fund $48 million in service upgrades for the tournament while shielding regular commuters and taxpayers from the added expense.

According to a recent report, the cost of a round‑trip train ticket from New York City’s Penn Station to MetLife Stadium could surge sevenfold to more than $100 during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Athletic cited sources familiar with NJ Transit’s pricing strategy, noting that the agency told Fox 5 New York the exact fare has not yet been finalized, with a decision expected in the coming days.

At present, NJ Transit lists a standard round‑trip fare at $12.90, with discounted rates for children, seniors and passengers with disabilities. The proposed increase would eliminate these reduced‑price options, pushing the ticket price above the six‑figure mark for a single journey.

Transportation costs have become a focal point of the World Cup debate, joining concerns over the sky‑high match tickets. For context, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority recently raised its Boston‑to‑Gillette Stadium fare from $20 to $80 for the tournament.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill emphasized her commitment to protecting taxpayers, stating that the state will not subsidize travel for World Cup spectators.

"When I came into office about two months ago, I immediately got to work on the World Cup," Sherrill said. "One of the key things I wanted to make sure of was that we were not going to be paying for moving people who were viewing the World Cup on the backs of New Jersey taxpayers and New Jersey commuters."

NJ Transit estimates that operating its services for the eight World Cup matches at MetLife—including the July 19 final—will cost roughly $48 million.

The agency added, "The ticket prices for match‑day travel have not been finalized. However, as the Governor has clearly stated, the cost for the eight matches will not be borne by our regular commuters."

In February, Governor Sherrill cancelled a planned $5 million fan festival at Liberty State Park, redirecting the funds toward smaller watch parties and events across the state.

Officials anticipate tens of thousands of fans will rely on the rail network to reach MetLife, especially as parking availability will be sharply reduced compared with typical concert or NFL game days. NorthJersey.com reported that portions of Penn Station will be reserved exclusively for World Cup ticket‑holders for a four‑hour window before each of the eight matches.