FIFA ‘surprised’ by US backlash as transport costs skyrocket at World Cup

FIFA faces demands to cover soaring transport costs for 2026 World Cup as US officials cite broken promises to fans. | Contesto: cronaca

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• FIFA ‘surprised’ by US backlash as transport costs skyrocket at World Cup

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FIFA, the global governing body of football, has expressed surprise at a mounting political backlash in the United States, where a senior federal lawmaker and the Governor of New Jersey are demanding the organization cover skyrocketing public transport costs for the 2026 World Cup. The controversy centers on a policy requiring match tickets to also serve as transit passes in host cities, a plan now jeopardized by unresolved funding disputes between FIFA and local transit authorities. With the tournament less than two years away, the impasse threatens to saddle fans with exorbitant new costs for essential travel to and from venues. The core of the dispute lies in a foundational promise made during the successful North American bid for the 2026 tournament. FIFA and local organizers pledged an integrated, fan-friendly experience where a single match ticket would grant access to necessary public transportation on event days. This pledge was a key selling point for cities and a critical component of planning for an event expected to draw millions of visitors across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, negotiations between FIFA and regional transit agencies have stalled over who will pay the multimillion-dollar bill to operate extra services and honor the free-ride commitment for ticket holders. The political pressure escalated significantly when Representative Frank Pallone Jr., a powerful Democratic congressman from New Jersey, publicly called on FIFA to fulfill its financial obligations. In a sharply worded statement, Pallone characterized the situation as FIFA reneging on a promise to fans and local communities. His intervention was swiftly followed by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, whose state will host multiple matches at the 82,500-seat MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. Governor Murphy echoed Pallone’s demands, framing the issue as a matter of equity and logistical necessity, warning that without a resolution, ordinary supporters would bear the burden. FIFA’s reported surprise at the backlash suggests a potential disconnect between the organization’s commercial and operational planning and the political and economic realities on the ground in...

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Categoria: cronaca