MetLife Stadium in the US state of New Jersey is hosting the final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ahead of this major final between Spain and Argentina, an unprecedented security operation has been implemented in and around the 82,500-seat stadium.
President Trump's attendance pushes security measures to the highest level
The fact that US President Donald Trump will watch the match from the stands has led to security measures being raised to the maximum level. The Secret Service, along with federal, state and local law enforcement, are conducting strict searches at stadium entrances, while the facility's perimeter has been surrounded by a heavy security cordon.
Transportation and ticket costs strain fans
For tens of thousands of fans, one of the biggest challenges will be getting to the stadium. Additional train and bus services have been arranged for spectators traveling by public transport from New York and New Jersey. Officials warned that long delays could occur before and after the match due to heavy passenger traffic. Public transport costs are expected to be between $100 and $150.
Final ticket prices, meanwhile, are quite high. On various online platforms, tickets are selling for between $7,000 and $55,000 depending on seat location and field view. Hot weather and sudden summer downpours are also cited as other factors that could affect the match.
Fans complain about costs
Edgar, who came from Honduras with his son, said watching the final was a long-held dream experience. "We are very excited. This was on our bucket list, so we are very happy to be here," said Edgar, adding that the weather didn't worry him but that ticket and transportation costs could have been lower. "I think they could have made prices more accessible for everyone," he said.
While his son Kiran said he would support Spain, father Edgar sided with Argentina. Kiran said, "This is my first World Cup match, and it's the final. I'm so happy to see this game."
The Timpers family from the Netherlands has also been in Boston for a week for the tournament. Noah Timpers said, "This will be a meeting of football genius Lamine Yamal and legend Lionel Messi. I can't wait for the match and I'm curious about the outcome." His brother Sim Timpers emphasized that difficulties in finding tickets and organizing travel were inevitable, saying, "Getting tickets is always difficult and not everything may be perfect. You have to accept that and enjoy it."
The family's father, 50-year-old Jos Timpers, called on fans to be patient, saying, "The US is a great experience. The stadiums are magnificent and I think the matches are being played at a very high level."
