Traveling to a World Cup match at MetLife Stadium this summer will be more affordable than initially anticipated, according to recent reports.
Originally, NJ Transit and the FIFA New York-New Jersey Host Committee had set a round-trip fare from New York Penn Station to the stadium at $150. However, that price has now been decreased to $105.
NJ Transit explained that the fare reduction was made possible through support from sponsors and other funding sources.
After the fare was first announced, there was some contention between New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and FIFA, with the governor suggesting that FIFA should bear the costs associated with the rail tickets. FIFA expressed concerns that the high ticket prices could diminish the overall experience for fans.
A spokesperson for Governor Sherrill remarked that she has been clear about expecting FIFA to contribute to the transportation costs for fans attending the World Cup. Since that arrangement wasn’t realized, she has instructed the New Jersey Department of Transportation to seek private funding options to bring down ticket prices. The governor appreciates the businesses pitching in to lower costs for fans and aims for the World Cup to be beneficial for both attendees and New Jersey residents.
NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri defended the original fare, stating that New Jersey commuters should not shoulder the entire burden of public transportation costs. He emphasized that hosting the tournament would incur a hefty $48 million fee for the transit system.
Kolluri noted, “To transport 40,000 individuals and manage a $6 million cost per game, a price of $150 is necessary.” He also stated that commuters would see a significant reduction in their costs if a standard fare of $12.90 were implemented, covering 92% of the $48 million expense.
Moreover, parking at MetLife Stadium will be restricted, and ride-sharing options will be limited, which is expected to boost attendance.
Penn Station in New York will close to spectators for four hours prior to each game, and local residents are being encouraged to limit non-essential travel on game days.
The first match at MetLife Stadium is scheduled for June 13th.
