Gov. Sherrill says FIFA should cover cost for extra NJ Transit trains for World Cup

Updated 2 hours ago
NEW JERSEY (WABC) -- New Jersey Transit officials are expected to make an official announcement about what it is going to cost to commute to the World Cup from Penn Station.

The issue has become a political flashpoint amid reports that tickets to get to MetLife Stadium on game days could top $100.

It normally costs $12.90 on New Jersey Transit from Penn Station to the Meadowlands.

It's creating cause for concern for riders using New Jersey Transit to get to the Meadowlands for the eight games slated at the venue.

It could cost the system an estimated $48 million.



That's a cost Governor Mikie Sherrill will not pass on to taxpayers in New Jersey, she said.

"I won't stick New Jersey's commuters with that tab for years to come. That's not fair. So here's the bottom line, FIFA should pay for the rides, but if they don't, I'm not going to let New Jersey commuters get taken for one," Sherrill said.

Sherrill says her predecessor set up the deal.

FIFA issued a statement after Sherrill logged her complaint about the price of going to the games, stating the soccer organization was surprised by the governor's approach to transportation.

They added, "The original FIFA World Cup 2026 host city agreements signed in 2018 required free transportation for fans to all matches."



A FIFA spokesperson said no other event ever hosted at MetLife has required organizers to pay for fan transportation.

"FIFA is not aware of any other major event previously held at NYNJ Stadium, including other major sports, global concert tours, etc, where organizers were required to pay for fan transportation."

New Jersey Transit passengers could pay $150.00 per person from Penn Station to the games scheduled at the stadium.

Carmen Rojas' whole family is traveling from Ecuador to see their country play Germany. Their wallets have already taken a big loss.

"They pay for the airline ticket already; they pay already for the ticket to get in," she said. "They paid $1,300 for the ticket just to go to the game. So, another $150 is not going to help them."



There is parking available at the American Dream Mall. Those prices are set by FIFA and could run over $200 per space.

Those who park at the mall will have access to mall festivities and celebrations.

A major update on the transportation plan will be announced on Friday.

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