Fans attending the 2026 World Cup in the United States have expressed shock at the high cost of public transport to stadiums in some host cities, with round-trip train fares reaching $98 in New Jersey and $80 in Massachusetts. These prices are significantly higher than the typical fares for NFL games at the same venues, which cost $12.90 and $20 respectively.
The situation contrasts sharply with previous World Cups, where host countries provided free or heavily subsidised transport. In Germany in 2006, the 'KombiTicket' offered free local public transport on match days, while Russia in 2018 provided free long-distance trains between host cities, and Qatar in 2022 offered free metro access.
Officials have defended the charges, stating they are necessary to cover security and expanded train services without burdening taxpayers. However, many fans view this as an additional financial strain on top of already high ticket prices, flights, and accommodation costs. Some have criticised FIFA, which is expected to generate billions from the tournament, for not covering these expenses.
In response, a group of Scottish fans has taken matters into their own hands. Rory Phillips-Hunter, a 37-year-old hospitality worker from northern England, organised 20 school buses to transport nearly 1,000 fans to matches in Foxborough, Massachusetts, at a cost of about $50 per person. This is less than the $95 bus fare offered by local officials, saving the group over $85,000. Phillips-Hunter expressed frustration that a group from overseas could arrange cheaper transport than local authorities.
Not all host cities are imposing high transport costs. Atlanta, Houston, and Seattle have stadiums linked to their rail systems with regular fares. Miami-Dade County is offering free shuttles to Hard Rock Stadium, while Philadelphia provides free return rides funded by FIFA sponsor Airbnb. Kansas City, Missouri, is operating $15 shuttles. The higher costs in New Jersey and Massachusetts are partly due to the suburban locations of the stadiums, where parking will be limited during the World Cup due to security and broadcast requirements.
