- Fifa has expressed “surprise” at outrage from local politicians regarding controversial public transport price hikes for fans attending the 2026 World Cup.
- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill stated that FIFA should cover the spiralling costs for trains to MetLife Stadium, where tickets could exceed $100 compared to the usual fares priced at $12.90.
- Fifa claims that original 2018 host city agreements required free fan transport, but this was adjusted in 2023 to allow transport “at cost” for ticket holders, citing financial strain on host cities.
- Other political figures, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Governor Kathy Hochul, have also criticised FIFA, arguing that the organisation, set to generate $11 billion, should cover transport costs rather than burdening taxpayers.
- The controversy extends beyond New Jersey, with authorities in Boston also planning to quadruple return fares to Gillette Stadium, leading to criticism from fan groups like Free Lions.
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