New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has addressed the backlash over proposed $100 World Cup train fares, insisting FIFA should cover the cost rather than local commuters.
The transport issue has quickly become one of the sharpest off-field controversies surrounding the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
With MetLife Stadium set to host multiple matches, including the final, the debate is no longer just about logistics, but about who should pay for a global event expected to generate billions.
New Jersey Governor tells FIFA to cover World Cup train costs
After backlash emerged over NJ Transit’s plan to charge more than $100 for a World Cup return trip that normally costs $12.90, Sherrill addressed the issue via her X handle.
“We inherited an agreement where FIFA is providing $0 for transportation to the World Cup. And while NJ TRANSIT is stuck with a $48 million bill to safely get fans to and from games, FIFA is making $11 billion,” Sherrill said.
The criticism has centered on the scale of the proposed increase and the wider perception that ordinary fans are being asked to absorb costs tied to a tournament FIFA stands to profit heavily from.
That is why the pricing plan has triggered such a strong reaction, especially before ticketing and travel costs elsewhere are fully settled.
Governor says New Jersey commuters should not carry FIFA burden
Sherrill then made clear where she believes the responsibility should sit.
“I’m not going to stick New Jersey commuters with that tab for years to come. FIFA should pay for the rides. But if they don’t – I’m not going to let New Jersey get taken for one,” she added.
The message is straightforward. New Jersey does not want a long-term public cost attached to a short-term global event.
As a result, the transport row is becoming a broader argument about fairness, access, and how host regions are expected to support the tournament.
For now, the fares remain a flashpoint, and the pressure is firmly on FIFA as officials try to prevent the World Cup fan experience from being defined by transport costs before the action even begins.
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