A top US lawmaker, Chuck Schumer, has called on FIFA to pay for public transportation during the 2026 World Cup amid concerns over sharp fare increases.

The demand follows reports that transit fares from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium could exceed $100, far above the usual $12.90, during match days.

Schumer argued that FIFA, which is expected to generate about $11 billion from the tournament, should not allow local residents to bear the burden of transportation costs.

“Residents should not subsidise an $11 billion windfall,” he said, urging the organisation to make the tournament more accessible.

Kathy Hochul also criticised the proposed fare hike, describing it as excessive and stressing that the World Cup should remain affordable for fans.

Authorities in New Jersey have yet to finalise transport pricing, while officials say the cost of running services for matches, eight of which will be hosted at MetLife Stadium, including the final—could reach $48 million.

Similar concerns have emerged in Boston, where transport fares to Gillette Stadium are also expected to rise significantly during the tournament.