Governor Kathy Hochul announced cuts to World Cup travel fares, reducing bus tickets from $80 to $20 and train fares from $150 to $98. The moves follow fan backlash over inflated prices for trips to New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, where high-profile games including the final will be held.

NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri cited Fifa-related ad revenue and federal grants enabling the discounts. Previously, officials defended high fares as necessary to cover operational costs during the tournament. Other U.S. host cities like Philadelphia and Seattle avoided similar surcharges, intensifying scrutiny of New York and Boston’s pricing strategies.

The changes come amid broader criticism of World Cup ticketing practices, including dynamic pricing and inflated venue access costs. Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York New Jersey Host Committee, thanked Hochul for expanding shuttle capacity. Fifa redirected requests for comment to transit agencies, avoiding direct accountability.

Transport affordability remains a flashpoint as attendees face rising expenses beyond tickets. The adjustments highlight tensions between profit motives and fan accessibility during major sporting events.