New York/New Jersey drops bus fares to World Cup games amid outcry

The price of buses between New York and New Jersey for World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium has been slashed from $80 to $20, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and the NY/NJ Host Committee announced on Wednesday, May 13.

Fans had expressed outrage over the price of shuttle buses as well as trains between New York’s Penn Station and the stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, which were initially $150 for a round-trip ticket and have since been lowered to $98.

The bus fares have been lowered thanks to contributions from New York State and sponsors, with 20% of all bus tickets reserved for New York State residents.

Fans who have already purchased $80 bus tickets will 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 will 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 final.

Buses will provide 18,000 seats for five of those matches and 12,000 for three matches. They will depart from three Manhattan locations: Port Authority Bus Terminal, a Midtown East location east of Grand Central Terminal and a Midtown North location west of Central Park.

"Creating a World Cup experience that is accessible for both fans visiting our region and the people who call New York and New Jersey home is a core priority for us," said Alex Lasry, NY/NJ Host Committee CEO.

"We’re incredibly grateful to Governor Hochul for helping us expand shuttle capacity and reduce roundtrip fares from $80 to $20. These improvements will provide an affordable and convenient transportation option while furthering our mission to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime event for residents and visitors alike."