FIFA has pushed back against criticism from New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill over steep transport costs for the 2026 World Cup, warning that high train fares could create wider logistical problems beyond affordability.
Sherrill criticised USD $150 train tickets for round trip short journeys to MetLife Stadium and called on FIFA to subsidise travel, but tournament chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi argued that forcing organisers to absorb such costs was “unprecedented” and could lead to increased congestion as fans seek alternatives.
FIFA also rejected claims about its finances, stressing its not-for-profit status and saying World Cup revenues are reinvested into global football development, while maintaining that transport planning had been agreed with host cities years in advance.
NJ Transit CEO Kevin Kolluri is defending a plan to charge World Cup fans $150 for round-trip train tickets, calling the price necessary to cover the costs of the massive event.
Governor Mikie Sherrill has pushed back against the hike, again calling on FIFA to foot the bill… pic.twitter.com/CkY57aUgKu
— The Kind Joe (@TheKindJoe) April 18, 2026
Image credit: Anthony Quintano / Wikipedia
