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World Cup fans in New York will be able to watch matches in free public fan zones, city officials and organisers announced on Tuesday, as concerns over the high cost of attending the tournament heighten.
New York is one of the host cities for the World Cup, which will be jointly staged by the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11.
Public frustration had grown after it was revealed that round-trip train fares to MetLife Stadium, where eight matches, including the final, will be played, would cost about $150, compared with the usual $12.90.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani said efforts were ongoing to reduce the financial burden on residents, explaining that each of New York’s five boroughs would host a free viewing zone featuring live match screenings, food vendors and cultural events.
He said the decision was taken to ensure fans could experience the tournament without financial barriers, adding that “the world’s game should belong to everyone” and that supporters should be able to watch together “without having to spend a dollar.”
New Jersey Transit has defended the increased rail costs to MetLife Stadium, saying the expanded service is expected to cost nearly $50 million to operate for the 78,000-capacity venue.
Mamdani, however, questioned the funding structure, arguing that local authorities were being required to cover transport costs even as FIFA is projected to generate about $11 billion from the tournament.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has also previously urged the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) to contribute to transportation expenses for fans travelling to the stadium.
FIFA, however, has resisted the proposal, maintaining that its revenues are used to support member federations and fund other competitions.
The agreement with previous New Jersey officials also removed stadium parking, requiring a major expansion of rail services to move far more spectators than usual, according to state authorities.
FIFA, already facing criticism over high ticket prices, described New Jersey’s approach as “unprecedented.”
Each of New York City’s five boroughs will host a dedicated fan zone.
In Manhattan, the viewing site will be located at Rockefeller Center, known for its winter holiday skating rink and Christmas tree display.
Most other US host cities will also provide free fan zones, with the exception of Los Angeles.
New York and New Jersey officials expect around one million visitors during the tournament and project more than $3 billion in combined revenue.
