Fifa warns of 'chilling effect' on World Cup travel

Football

World football's governing body has criticised high train fares for the 2026 World Cup, following comments from a New Jersey official.

Fifa officials stated that train tickets priced at £111 will have a "chilling effect" on supporters during the 2026 World Cup. The organisation responded to New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, who previously defended the costs for fans travelling to the MetLife Stadium. Per Reuters, the dispute centres on the affordability of transit for the final, which the New Jersey venue will host on 19 July 2026.

According to The Guardian, Fifa remains concerned that inflated transport costs might prevent many supporters from attending matches. The governing body organises the tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It has urged local organisers to ensure accessible pricing for international and domestic fans alike. New Jersey transit officials previously cited infrastructure upgrades as a reason for the current fare structure. The stadium, located in East Rutherford, sits approximately eight miles from New York City. Fifa expects several million visitors to use public transport during the month-long competition, according to figures released by North American organisers.

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