For Latino fans across the New York metro area—from Washington Heights to Jackson Heights—getting to the 2026 World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium just got a lot more affordable. The New York/New Jersey organizing committee has announced a 75% reduction in bus fares for ticket holders, cutting the round-trip cost from $80 to just $20. The move is backed by a $6 million investment from Governor Kathy Hochul and aims to ease the financial burden on local residents, including the many bicultural families who plan to attend the eight matches hosted at the venue.
School Buses Join the Fleet
To meet demand, authorities have partnered with Highland Fleets and New York City School Bus Umbrella Services to add yellow school buses to the transport network. This expands capacity from 10,000 to 18,000 seats per match day. On non-school days, the full fleet will operate; on school days, capacity adjusts to 12,000. Mayor Zohran Mamdani endorsed the plan, emphasizing that making the World Cup accessible is a priority for the city. About 300 extra vehicles will be deployed during peak match days.
The discounted service will run from three strategic Manhattan locations: the Port Authority Bus Terminal, a Midtown East spot near Grand Central Terminal, and a Midtown North point west of Central Park. These hubs are designed to serve the estimated 25% to 30% of metro-area ticket holders—many of whom are part of the region's vibrant Latino community—who have already secured seats for the games.
Regional Fare Disparities
Despite this discount, other transit options remain pricey. New Jersey Transit recently cut its own World Cup fare hike by 30%, but a round trip from Manhattan still costs $105—far above the usual $12.90. The $20 bus service now stands as the most affordable way to reach East Rutherford. For Latino fans who often travel in family groups, this could mean significant savings. As the organizing committee balances costs with accessibility, these buses offer a lifeline for those who want to experience the world's biggest sporting event without breaking the bank.
For those planning their travel, check out our guide on Navigating the 2026 World Cup: A Fan's Guide to Air Travel Across Mexico, the U.S., and Canada for tips on getting to all host cities. And if you're looking for alternatives to overcrowded hotspots, our piece on 7 Travel Dupes for 2026: Smarter Alternatives to Overcrowded Hotspots might inspire your next trip.
The bus service will run from June 13 through the final on July 19. With the World Cup drawing millions of fans from across the Americas, this initiative ensures that New York's Latino community—whether rooting for Argentina, México, or the U.S.—can be part of the action without being priced out.
