New Jersey Transit Faces Backlash Over World Cup Transport Incident

The New Jersey Department of Transportation is facing criticism for promoting an incident where officers helped FIFA World Cup attendees reach MetLife Stadium due to travel issues, branding it as a feel-good story.

A mother and her son were in tears after they missed the last train while trying to get to the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford for the Brazil vs. Morocco match.

“Good news: A woman and her son were running late at Penn Station, New York, and missed the last train to the stadium. She was visibly upset and in tears after learning she would not be able to attend the event,” the department noted in a post on X.

The post continued, detailing how the deputy chief got involved and arranged for assistance. An ESU team transported them to the stadium in a light truck to ensure they made it in time for kickoff.

Upon arrival, the mother was reportedly overwhelmed with relief and gratitude, shedding tears once more.

However, many users reacted with confusion and anger, finding it perplexing that the New Jersey Transit Authority would frame this as good news.

“I don’t think this is good news,” one user commented.

Another added, “If this is considered ‘good news,’ things must be difficult in New Jersey.”

A third user expressed frustration, stating, “My tax dollars shouldn’t be used for this mother’s poor planning.”

The situation followed a chaotic scene where thousands of fans were stuck for hours after the game ended in a 1-1 draw.

By midnight, more than three hours post-match, roads around the venue remained congested, and disgruntled supporters were left waiting in long lines at the designated ride-share area.

Brazilian fan Aline Kubik remarked, “I live in America and have been to big events before, but this is my first time. I can’t believe I’m in America right now.”

Another fan, Gerardo Alfaro, voiced his frustration, rating it a solid 10, saying, “This is terrible.”

This incident occurred despite New Jersey Transit announcing it successfully transported over 21,500 fans from the game in just 90 minutes via bus and rail. The department and state officials have also faced scrutiny for the high round-trip ticket price of $98 for the Meadowlands World Cup.

New Jersey Transit has not yet responded to requests for comments on the situation.