Kansas City have pledged to deliver “globally inclusive” transportation for fans during this summer’s World Cup amid controversy concerning New Jersey’s spiralling costs.
The World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada has seen reports over increased costs, including train tickets from New York’s Penn Station to MetLife Stadium topping $100 for World Cup games, according to The Athletic, despite usual fares priced at $12.90.
New Jersey Governer Mikie Sherrill has called on Fifa to front the travel expenses rather than “stick N.J. commuters with a tab for years to come”, outrage which football’s governing body expressed their “surprise” at.
But in a move seemingly to allay fears to their own residents and travelling fans, Kansas City has outlined its more reasonable and affordable plans for public transport.
“Kansas City is committed to delivering a welcoming, globally inclusive, and easy-to-navigate experience for all fans during the FIFA World Cup 2026,” a statement read.
“KC2026 and our regional partners are committed to creating an inclusive environment by ensuring visitors and residents alike can move seamlessly across the entire KC metro—connecting downtown, match venues, and neighborhoods throughout the region through a range of accessible transportation options.”
In addition to existing public transit options, Kansas City will provide three World Cup-specific services.
The first will be a free bus shuttle between Kansas City International Airport and downtown with a drop-off at the ConnectKC26 bus mall, which is just two blocks away from the city’s Fifa Fan Festival, the official World Cup fan zone.
There will also be a direct matchday bus service which will connect four park-and-ride locations and the fan zone to the KC Stadium, with tickets priced at just $15 for a round trip.
Thirdly, Kansas City are implementing unlimited regional travel passes to and from the fan zone; a day pass will cost $5, a week pass will cost $25 while a tournament pass will cost $50.
Kansas City will be the base of England’s national team for this summer’s tournament finals and will host four group games, including the start of Argentina’s World Cup defence against Algeria on 16 June, as well as a round-of-32 clash on 3 July and quarter-final match on 11 July.
However, England fans will not be able to be benefit from Kansas City’s travel policy with the Three Lions
England fans have taken a swipe at "another rip-off at this World Cup,” with Thomas Tuchel’s side due to play in New Jersey against Panama in the group stage.
