FIFA in fresh World Cup ‘chaos’ as train, bus ticket sales highlight major travel issue

FIFA is facing fresh World Cup “chaos” after new figures revealed major uncertainty over how tens of thousands of fans will reach the first New Jersey match this weekend.

With limited bus and train ticket sales and thousands of supporters still without confirmed travel plans, concerns are growing over matchday logistics at MetLife Stadium.

Transport issues mount ahead of New Jersey opener

The FIFA World Cup match in New Jersey is just hours away, yet tens of thousands of supporters still do not know how they will get to MetLife Stadium ahead of kick-off.

The stadium, which has been temporarily renamed New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament, is set to host its first game this Saturday evening as Brazil face Morocco in front of an almost sold-out crowd.

However, transport arrangements remain a major concern, with only around 23,600 fans having purchased bus or train tickets so far, while just under 3,500 parking spaces have been sold.

That leaves close to 50,000 ticket holders with unclear travel plans, raising questions over how the stadium will cope with arrivals on matchday.

Fans using rideshare services are expected to be dropped off over a mile from the stadium, adding to concerns over congestion and accessibility around the Meadowlands Sports Complex.

Officials have also faced criticism over pricing and availability of public transport, with New Jersey Transit previously coming under fire after significant fare increases on World Cup routes.

In response, alternative bus options have been introduced, but only around 12,900 bus tickets and 10,800 train tickets have been sold so far, according to the latest figures.

World Cup organisers have urged supporters to use official transport services only, including shuttles and NJ Transit rail links, warning that private vehicles and unplanned travel routes will not be permitted.

Despite these warnings, uptake remains low, and concerns are growing over whether existing infrastructure will be enough to handle the influx of supporters.

FGG Says: Transport concerns could overshadow opening fixture

While attention will rightly be on the football, the logistical issues surrounding travel to the stadium risk becoming an early talking point of the tournament, in what is already a World Cup surrounded by controversy.

With tens of thousands of fans still without confirmed transport plans, organisers may be forced to act quickly to avoid delays and congestion on a historic opening weekend in New Jersey.