Four Wall Street Journal journalists tested multiple transportation methods from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium to determine the best way for fans to travel [1].
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, the logistics of moving thousands of spectators from New York City to East Rutherford, New Jersey, present a significant challenge. Understanding the feasibility of different transit modes is critical for fan planning and city infrastructure management.
The team conducted their tests on May 12, 2026 [2]. They evaluated four distinct methods of travel: walking, biking, running, and taking Uber rides [1, 2]. The goal was to assess the time required and the overall practicality of each option for spectators attending matches at the stadium [1, 2].
By attempting the journey via these diverse means, the journalists aimed to provide a realistic preview of the commute. The experiment covered the distance from the heart of Manhattan to the stadium gates, highlighting the physical and logistical hurdles inherent in crossing state lines during a major global sporting event [1].
MetLife Stadium serves as a primary venue for the tournament. Because the stadium is located outside the immediate New York City transit core, fans must rely on a mix of public transport, private shuttles, and personal effort to reach the games [1, 2].
“Four Wall Street Journal journalists tested multiple transportation methods from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium.”
The experiment underscores the potential for severe congestion and logistical bottlenecks during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Because MetLife Stadium is not directly connected to the Manhattan urban core, the reliance on varied transit modes, including ride-shares and active transport, suggests that fan arrival times will vary wildly, potentially straining New Jersey and New York transportation corridors.
