US leader demands FIFA pay for World Cup spectators’ travel expenses

Sports Desk

An influential US leader has demanded that FIFA cover travel costs for the World Cup, amid soaring ticket prices, after reports that train fares were hiked during the games in New Jersey.

US Senator Chuck Schumer said that football’s governing body FIFA will earn about $11 billion from this World Cup. Therefore, they should pay for the cost of travel to the stadium.

A report said that train tickets to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey could cost more than $100, compared to a typical fare of just $12.90.

Schumer said, “Where FIFA is making billions of dollars, it is not right to burden ordinary people with this expense. I demand that FIFA cover the travel costs of the host cities.”
New York Governor Kathy Hokul also criticized the price increase, saying, “The World Cup should be affordable and accessible for everyone. $100 is too much for a short trip.”

New Jersey officials said a final decision on the rent has not yet been made, but it is estimated that the cost of transporting the eight games will be around $48 million.

The same problem has arisen in Boston, where tickets that are normally $20 are expected to go up to $80 during the World Cup.