World Cup host city to offer free train travel to fans after New Jersey transport row | OneFootball

Philadelphia is set to offer free train travel to football fans leaving World Cup matches this summer, a move that stands in stark contrast to the controversial transport costs announced by New Jersey.

The local organising committee confirmed the initiative, which will be facilitated by a partnership with World Cup sponsor Airbnb.

Spectators will benefit from complimentary journeys on the B (Broad Street Line) train network, available from half-time until two hours after full-time for matches held at NRG Station, adjacent to the Lincoln Financial Field stadium.

Additionally, a journey to the stadium from any B line station will cost just $2.90 (£2.14), following confirmation last week that local transport fares would not increase for the tournament.

This fan-friendly approach comes amid recent scrutiny over transport expenses for the tournament.

New Jersey drew criticism after confirming a $150 (£111) return fare for spectators travelling from central New York to the MetLife Stadium. This decision was condemned by fan groups and even Fifa, which warned of a potential "chilling effect" and anticipated transport issues around the venue.

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New Jersey governor Mikie Sherrill called on Fifa to cover transport costs for the World Cup (AFP/Getty)

Philadelphia, which will host group stage matches featuring Brazil and France, alongside a last-16 fixture on American Independence Day, July 4, presents a welcome alternative.

Josh Shapiro, the Governor of Pennsylvania, stated: "I’m glad Airbnb is stepping up to provide free rides for fans so they can get home safely and affordably. I invite everyone to come see for yourself why Pennsylvania is truly the Great American Getaway."

Other host cities are also implementing fan-friendly pricing.

Kansas City, where England’s training camp will be based, plans free bus travel from the airport to the city centre fan festival. It will also offer daily, weekly, and tournament passes for unlimited regional travel at $5, $25, and $50 respectively. A Stadium Direct service will connect four park-and-ride locations and the fan festival to Arrowhead Stadium for $15 per person.

Dallas organisers have confirmed that spectators travelling to the AT&T Stadium – where England will play their opener against Croatia on June 17 – from downtown Dallas will pay just $6 return to the Centreport station, with complimentary buses completing the journey. Return fares from Fort Worth to Centreport will be even cheaper, at just $4.

New Jersey governor Mikie Sherrill had previously asserted that "Fifa should pay" for transport, a day before NJ Transit announced the $150 return fare.

The original hosting agreements for cities had mandated free transport for fans, though this wording was later amended to allow provision "at cost".