In a major win for fans heading to the 2026 World Cup, the price of bus rides between New York and New Jersey for matches at MetLife Stadium has been dramatically slashed from $80 to just $20. The announcement came Wednesday from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and the NY/NJ Host Committee, following widespread backlash over the initially steep transportation costs.
Fans had voiced outrage over the original $80 shuttle bus fares and the $150 round-trip train tickets from New York's Penn Station to East Rutherford, New Jersey. The train fares have since been reduced to $98, but it's the bus price cut that's generating the most buzz. The lower fares are made possible by contributions from New York State and sponsors, with 20% of all bus tickets reserved specifically for New York State residents. And if you've already purchased a ticket at the old $80 rate? You'll be eligible for a $60 refund.
"Hosting the World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for New Yorkers, and we are making this world class event as affordable and accessible as possible," Hochul said in a press release. "Delivering cheaper shuttle bus service is a no-brainer: making it easier to get to matches and saving fans money, especially for New Yorkers who will benefit from exclusive tickets at this new, lower price. This is your World Cup, and from Buffalo to Brooklyn, New Yorkers should be able to enjoy every moment of it."
MetLife Stadium is set to host eight matches during the 2026 World Cup, including five group-stage games, a round of 32 match, a round of 16 match, and the tournament final. To handle the massive crowds, buses will provide 18,000 seats for five of those matches and 12,000 for three others. Fans can catch the shuttles from three Manhattan locations: Port Authority Bus Terminal, a Midtown East spot east of Grand Central Terminal, and a Midtown North location west of Central Park.
Whether you're a die-hard soccer fan or just soaking in the atmosphere of the world's biggest sporting event, this price drop makes it easier than ever to gear up and get to the game. So grab your favorite jersey, plan your route, and get ready to cheer on the action at MetLife Stadium.