NJ Transit reduces World Cup train fare to $105 after FIFA warning

NEWARK, N.J. — New Jersey Transit is lowering a planned round-trip train fare to MetLife Stadium for upcoming World Cup matches from $150 to $105. The price adjustment follows public outcry and direct intervention by state leadership.

Gov. Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat, directed the transit agency to seek private and non-taxpayer dollars to bring down the planned surge pricing for tournament travel.

Steve Sigmund, a spokesperson for Sherrill, said in a written statement that the governor appreciated the companies that had already stepped up to lower the costs for ticket holders. She will continue to ensure the World Cup is an experience that benefits fans and all New Jerseyans, he said.

State officials said last month that the upcharge on trains headed to the stadium was necessary to help offset the transit agency costs for the games. The statewide directive to lower the fare does not change the fact that the revised $105 round-trip price will apply to riders from all stations.

The reduced fare is still far higher than the roughly $13 a round-trip ticket from Manhattan Penn Station to the stadium typically costs under normal service conditions.

Spokespersons for FIFA declined to comment Thursday on the adjusted pricing. The international soccer governing body had previously warned that New Jersey transit prices could have a “chilling effect” on the games. FIFA noted that other U.S. host cities, such as Los Angeles, Dallas and Houston, are keeping their fares unchanged.

The state estimates around 40,000 fans will use mass transit for each match. The heavy reliance on public transportation is driven by stadium logistics, as there will be no on-site parking at MetLife Stadium. Only limited parking spots will be available at the nearby American Dream Mall.

MetLife is the home stadium for both the NFL New York Giants and New York Jets. The venue is set to host eight World Cup matches, including the tournament final on July 19. Group stage matches for soccer powerhouses Brazil, France, Germany and England, along with other nations, begin June 13.