POLITICS

Sherrill urges FIFA to shoulder World Cup transit bill

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East Rutherford, New Jersey: Governor Mikie Sherrill on Wednesday demanded that FIFA contribute toward transportation costs after reports this week said NJ Transit is considering charging up to $100 for round-trip train fares between New York Penn Station and MetLife Stadium for eight World Cup matches beginning June 11. Sherrill said the administration inherited an agreement with no FIFA funding and cited an estimated $48 million bill to shuttle roughly 40,000 fans per game. This week NJ Transit’s board approved giving CEO Kris Kolluri temporary authority to set final ticket pricing to cover costs, and federal and state officials including Senator Chuck Schumer have urged FIFA to help. Transit agencies in other host cities, including the MBTA in Boston, confirmed elevated event fares, and officials say they will either seek FIFA contributions, approve temporary fare increases, or reallocate budgets ahead of the tournament.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Hosting agreement left transportation funding responsibility with local authorities; FIFA provides $0.
The Athletic reports NJ Transit considering $100 round-trip fares between Penn Station and MetLife Stadium.
MBTA confirms $80 return fares for Boston-to-Gillette Stadium World Cup matches.
Gov. Sherrill and Senator Schumer publicly call on FIFA to fund transit costs this week.
NJ Transit board grants CEO temporary authority to set final ticket prices to cover costs.

Why This Matters to You

If you're planning to attend World Cup matches, you might face steep transit costs. NJ Transit is considering charging up to $100 for round-trip fares. Boston's MBTA confirmed $80 return fares. Check your budget and travel plans.

The Bottom Line

Governor Sherrill and Senator Schumer are calling on FIFA to help with these costs. But for now, local transit authorities are left to cover the bill. Stay tuned for final ticket pricing. Worth forwarding if you know a soccer fan.

Who Benefited

If higher fares are implemented, NJ Transit and local authorities would realize short-term revenue to cover security and operational costs; event promoters and private vendors could benefit from increased event-related spending, while FIFA would avoid direct transport expenses unless compelled to contribute.