Chuck Schumer, the U.S. Senate Minority Leader, has called on FIFA to take responsibility for public transportation costs during the 2026 World Cup, following reports of steep fare increases in host cities.
His appeal came after claims that New Jersey Transit may raise return ticket prices from Manhattan’s Penn Station to MetLife Stadium to over $100—far above the usual $12.90 fare.
Schumer argued that with FIFA expected to generate around $11 billion from the tournament, it should not shift the financial burden onto residents and commuters. He stressed that fans should be able to attend matches without facing excessive transport costs and urged the organization to step in and fund transit services across host cities.
Kathy Hochul also expressed concern, describing the reported fare increase as too high and emphasizing the need to keep the event accessible to the public.
Although a spokesperson for New Jersey Transit stated that no final decision has been made and labeled the reported fares as speculative, internal estimates suggest that transportation services for the eight matches at MetLife Stadium—including the final on July 19—could cost about $48 million. Meanwhile, Mikie Sherrill has assured that taxpayers will not bear the cost.
The issue extends beyond the New York-New Jersey area. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority has also indicated that fares from Boston to Gillette Stadium could rise from $20 to $80 during the tournament.
As preparations continue, pressure is mounting on FIFA to allocate part of its expected record revenue toward easing transportation costs and improving accessibility for fans.