Germany's national team players are footing the bill for 600 supporters to travel to their World Cup match in New Jersey. Joshua Kimmich and his teammates organized buses to transport fans from New York to the Met Life Stadium for the June 25 game against Ecuador. This move comes after FIFA's decision to charge fans significantly higher rates than usual for public transit during the tournament.

Transport costs surged dramatically, with train tickets normally priced at $12.90 jumping to $150 before being reduced to $98. Shuttle buses, initially $80, were cut to $20. New Jersey's governor cited FIFA's refusal to subsidize transport expenses as the reason for the steep pricing. The German FA confirmed the players are covering all costs for the fan shuttle service.

At previous World Cups in Russia and Qatar, fans enjoyed free transit to venues and fan zones. The US had originally committed to providing similar perks in its 2018 hosting agreement. However, a 2023 amendment shifted to charging supporters at cost value, leading to the current pricing controversy.

The players' initiative highlights growing frustration among traveling supporters over transport costs. Their action demonstrates solidarity with fans facing financial strain during the global event.