NAIROBI, Kenya — Football fans have voiced outrage over steep transport fare increases to World Cup venues in the United States, igniting a dispute between local authorities and FIFA over who should bear the cost burden.
Reports indicate that New Jersey Transit plans to charge more than $100 (approximately Sh13,000) for a return ticket between Manhattan’s Penn Station and MetLife Stadium during match days — a sharp increase from the usual $12.90 fare.
Similarly, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority confirmed that return fares from Boston to Gillette Stadium will rise to $80, up from the standard event-day price of $20.
The increases have drawn sharp criticism from fan groups, who argue the costs undermine accessibility to the tournament. Guillaume Aupretre, spokesperson for France’s main supporters’ group, described the move as a “disgrace,” noting that previous tournaments often included free or subsidised transport for ticket holders.
“They keep piling on the extra costs without giving any thought to the fans,” he said, accusing organisers of sidelining loyal supporters in favour of wealthier attendees.
Fan groups from England echoed similar frustrations, describing the pricing as exploitative amid already high match ticket costs.
The controversy has also spilled into political circles. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill blamed FIFA for the fare hikes, citing a $48 million bill the state faces to ensure security for matches at MetLife Stadium.
“I won’t stick New Jersey commuters for that tab for years to come — that’s not fair,” she said, adding that FIFA is projected to generate up to $11 billion from the tournament.
In Washington, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called on FIFA to cover transport costs, reinforcing growing political pressure on the global football body.
FIFA, however, pushed back, stating that initial host city agreements had required free transport for fans, but were later renegotiated to allow services to be provided “at cost.” The organisation expressed surprise at the criticism, arguing that major event organisers are not typically required to fund public transport for spectators.
“The FIFA World Cup will bring millions of fans to North America along with the related economic impact,” the body said in a statement, defending its position.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul also criticised the fare hikes, calling prices exceeding $100 for short trips “awfully high.”
Transport agencies have sought to downplay the controversy, with New Jersey Transit indicating that pricing decisions are not yet final and describing reports as unconfirmed.
In contrast, Los Angeles has pledged to maintain standard fares for travel to SoFi Stadium, offering a potential model for balancing accessibility with operational costs.
