The 2026 World Cup is facing a major transportation hurdle, and FIFA is sounding the alarm. The organization has responded to criticism from New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, warning that exorbitant train fares for fans could create a "chilling effect" on the tournament's atmosphere and economic impact.

The controversy centers on travel to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, which will be renamed New York/New Jersey Stadium for the World Cup and will host eight matches, including an England group game and the final. Fans are being asked to pay $150 (approximately £111) for a 30-minute train journey from New York, with no concession prices for children or seniors. Shuttle bus tickets are priced at $80 (£59).

Governor Sherrill placed the blame squarely on FIFA, stating the governing body is providing "$0 for transportation" while NJ Transit faces a $48m (£35m) bill. She argued that FIFA, which is projected to make billions from the tournament, should subsidize the cost for fans.

FIFA's Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup, Heimo Schirgi, fired back, defending the organization's goal to minimize congestion and ensure a positive fan experience. He warned that these "elevated fares inevitably push fans towards alternative transportation options," which could lead to increased traffic, late arrivals, and ultimately "diminish the economic benefit" for the host region.

This issue isn't isolated to New Jersey. Similar price hikes are reported for travel to Gillette Stadium near Boston, where train fares have jumped to $80 (£59). With the World Cup being a celebration for fans worldwide, the debate over accessible and affordable transportation is becoming a critical pre-tournament storyline, threatening to overshadow the on-pitch action before a ball is even kicked.