Ahead of eight matches at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, including the final, Penn Station in central Manhattan will prioritize access for ticket holders. The station is anticipated to serve as a crucial transit point for fans traveling from New York City to Meadowlands for the games.

According to NorthJersey.com, Penn Station will be inaccessible to non-ticket holders for four hours before each match. Spectators must present their tickets at designated entry points on 33rd and 32nd Streets, along Seventh Avenue.

Morning commuters walk past the entrance to Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station, New York City, US on 17/8/2017. *Reuters*

Passengers utilizing Amtrak and Long Island Rail Road services will be redirected to alternative entrances for their respective train lines. However, NJ Transit passengers will be unable to board trains to New Jersey from Penn Station during the four-hour window preceding each match.

This decision has sparked outrage among New York residents and New Jersey commuters. Many have questioned how they are expected to maintain their daily routines amidst such disruptions.

“This is wrong. We should never exclude ordinary citizens from public services,” one social media user commented on X.

“Some matches are scheduled for weekday evenings. If a game is on a tuesday at 8h, do commuters have to leave early or wait until 8h?” another individual questioned.

Another user remarked: “The public transportation system is being reserved for wealthy sports fans while workers cannot get to their jobs.”

The World Cup 2026 final will take place at MetLife Stadium, Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford, New Jersey, US on 19/7/2026. *AP*

Reports indicate that an average of 132,000 passengers use NJ Transit services through Penn Station daily. Four of the eight matches scheduled at MetLife this summer will occur on weekdays. These include the first match at 15h on 16/6, the second at 20h on 22/6, the third at 16h on 25/6, and the fourth on 30/6, with its time yet to be determined.

A spokesperson for the New York-New Jersey World Cup Host Committee acknowledged the possibility of restricting a section of Penn Station to ticket holders. The committee is closely coordinating with FIFA and regional transportation partners to finalize a comprehensive mobility plan for the tournament; the ultimate plan remains unconfirmed.

The World Cup 2026 will run from 11/6 to 19/7 across the US, Canada, and Mexico. This edition marks the first time 48 teams will participate, a substantial increase from the previous 32, with a projected 104 matches. The tournament will span approximately 16 cities, primarily within the US. While the expanded format offers more teams a chance to compete, it has also sparked debate regarding the professional quality of play and the logistical challenges posed by extensive travel distances.

By Hong Duy (according to Daily Mail)