Hochul Slams New Jersey’s $150 World Cup Ticket Scheme As Crazy

New York, NY — A growing feud over who owns and pays for moving World Cup crowds from New York City to MetLife Stadium is spilling into public view after New York Gov. Kathy Hochul mocked projected $150 train fares, escalating tensions with New Jersey leaders and FIFA ahead of the 2026 tournament. The flashpoint came after Hochul’s press office posted “$150 to get there is crazy,” reacting to reports that round-trip rail tickets between Manhattan and the stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, could reach that price point. The comment lands as New Jersey faces an estimated $48 million transportation bill tied to hosting matches—including the final—at MetLife Stadium. Cost fight widens beyond ticket prices At the center of the dispute is who should absorb the mounting transit costs tied to one of the world’s largest sporting events. New Jersey officials argue taxpayers and daily commuters should not shoulder the burden. Gov. Mikie Sherrill has pushed for FIFA—projected to generate billions from the tournament—to contribute to transportation funding rather than relying on state resources. The disagreement has drawn in federal lawmakers from both states, adding pressure on FIFA to reconsider its role in funding logistics. Branding dispute fuels frustration