World Cup opening match triggers gridlock alert in NYC-NJ

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off its New York-New Jersey matches on Saturday, June 13, with a sold-out game between Brazil and Morocco at the stadium known for the tournament as New York New Jersey Stadium, formerly MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The event brought significant travel disruptions and logistical challenges to the region as tens of thousands of fans descended upon the area.

With nearly 50,000 ticket holders for the opening match, only about half had secured official transportation as of the day before the game, according to data reviewed by local media. Just 23,600 fans had purchased bus or train tickets, and fewer than 3,500 parking spots were sold. Officials warned fans to use only official FIFA transportation, such as shuttles or New Jersey Transit trains, noting that private vehicles and walking to the stadium are prohibited. Fans using rideshare services face a 1.3-mile walk from the designated drop-off point.

In anticipation of the match, along with other major events in Manhattan, New York City officials declared a Gridlock Alert for severe traffic congestion in Midtown. Street closures were implemented around Penn Station and Madison...