Tensions are rising ahead of the 2026 World Cup. A major host city has now openly criticised FIFA over a growing issue.
However, the problem is not related to football on the pitch. It centres around the cost of travel for fans.
Meanwhile, transport prices in several cities have surged dramatically. Supporters now face far higher costs than expected.
In Boston, the usual $20 train to Gillette Stadium has jumped to $80. The venue will host multiple matches, including games involving England and Scotland.
At the same time, the situation in New York and New Jersey appears even worse. A return train journey to MetLife Stadium, normally priced at $12.90 for NFL games.
It will rise to $100 during the tournament. The stadium will host eight matches, including the final. However, not every city has followed this approach.
Philadelphia has kept prices unchanged. Fans can travel to Lincoln Financial Field for just $2.8 each way. That contrast has only added to the controversy.
Meanwhile, criticisms have now turned towards FIFA. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has publicly blamed the organisation.
She claimed FIFA is not contributing to transport costs. Sherrill said: “Our administration inherited an agreement where FIFA is providing zero dollars for transportation to the World Cup. Zero.”
She added that local transport services face a $48 million bill to move fans. At the same time, she pointed out FIFA’s massive earnings. The tournament is expected to generate $11 billion.
Sherrill also criticised ticket prices, which can reach $10,000 for the final. She made her position clear: “FIFA should pay for the rides.”
And as the situation unfolds, fans could end up paying the price both inside and outside the stadium to watch the 2026 World Cup.
Hemos heredado un acuerdo en el que la FIFA no aporta ni un solo dólar para el transporte del mundial.⁰⁰Y mientras NJ Transit se queda con una factura de 48 millones de dólares para transportar de manera segura a 40,000 fanáticos desde el estadio hacia donde vayan, la FIFA esta… pic.twitter.com/e5JvlkRGhp
— Governor Mikie Sherrill (@GovSherrillNJ) April 15, 2026
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