New Jersey Transit and related public transport options are reducing fares for people travelling to World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey after criticism from fans about high ticket prices. Reports say the initial round-trip rail fare was set at around $150 for travel between New York Penn Station and MetLife Stadium, prompting an outcry. New Jersey officials and the transit agency then announce lower prices, including a reduction to about $105 round-trip, with further reporting that costs may drop again after additional support. Separately, shuttle bus fares are also cut by about 75 percent. One account says bus fares that had been about $80 each way were reduced to about $20 each way for journeys from major New York departure points such as Grand Central Terminal and the Port Authority bus terminal.
The fare changes come amid broader complaints about the overall cost of attending the tournament, including match tickets, lodging and travel. FIFA has maintained that responsibilities for costs were agreed with host cities and says it does not cover transit expenses, while New Jersey officials discuss securing other funding sources.
