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US lawmaker demands FIFA cover World Cup transport costs amid New Jersey fare hike reports

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called on FIFA to pay for World Cup public transportation costs, following reports that New Jersey Transit plans to significantly increase ticket prices during the tournament. Schumer stated on X that FIFA, which is expected to earn $11 billion from the event, should cover these expenses. He was responding to a report indicating that New Jersey Transit might charge over $100 for a round-trip ticket from Manhattan's Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, a journey that typically costs $12.90. Schumer argued that New York area commuters and residents should not subsidize FIFA's profits. New York Governor Kathy Hochul also expressed concern about the reported price hike, calling it "awfully high." While NJ Transit did not immediately comment, a spokesperson quoted by The Athletic said that World Cup ticket prices are not yet finalized and any reported costs are unconfirmed speculation. The Athletic's report, citing NJ Transit sources, suggested that providing services for the eight matches at MetLife Stadium could cost around $48 million. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has stated that the state will not pass these transportation costs to local taxpayers. A similar issue has arisen in Boston, where the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority confirmed that round-trip tickets from the city to Gillette Stadium would increase from $20 to $80 during the World Cup.