FIFA World Cup 2026 under fire as Mikie Sherrill hits rising ticket prices and transport costs while Taylor Twellman raises concerns

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is already facing trouble, and this time it’s not about teams or matches. It’s about money. Fans are struggling with very high ticket prices, expensive travel, and rising transport costs across host cities in the United States.

What was supposed to be a big moment to grow soccer in North America is slowly turning into a costly experience that many fans may not afford.Ticket prices have shocked people the most. Even for smaller games, fans are paying around $140. But for big matches, prices are going as high as $11,000. For example, the United States vs Paraguay game in California saw “front category 1” tickets priced at $4,105. Regular category tickets were still in the range of $2,000 or more.

For many fans, just getting inside the stadium is already a challenge.But the problem doesn’t stop there. Travel and transport are making things worse. Fans who somehow managed to get tickets are now dealing with very high costs just to reach the stadiums.

FIFA, Mikie Sherrill and Taylor Twellman react as transport costs and World Cup 2026 planning face backlash

In New Jersey, things have become a major talking point. Transport prices to MetLife Stadium have gone up sharply. A round trip now costs $150, compared to the usual $12.90.

Boston has also raised its train fares, with some tickets reaching $80 to $90.New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill made her position very clear. She said, “We inherited an agreement where Fifa is providing $0 for transportation to the World Cup.” She added, “And while NJ TRANSIT is stuck with a $48m bill to safely get fans to and from games, Fifa is making $11bn. I’m not going to stick New Jersey commuters with that tab for years to come.”On the other side, FIFA has defended itself. The organization said that when New Jersey agreed to host games back in 2018, it had accepted responsibility for transport. That deal was later changed in 2023, allowing states to charge fans.FIFA also said, “FIFA World Cup will bring millions of fans to North America along with related economic impact.” They believe the money coming into the region will cover these costs.Former USMNT player Taylor Twellman questioned the situation. He said, “You would have to ask the questions to FIFA and say what are we doing here? Why is that driving the narrative of the conversation and not growing the sport?”Interestingly, not every city is doing this. Kansas City is offering a $50 package for unlimited bus rides during the tournament. Philadelphia has also kept its regular transport prices and is even planning free fan events. This difference is raising a simple question, if some cities can keep things affordable, why can’t others?