TRENTON, N.J. — Republican members of New Jersey’s Senate and Assembly budget committees are calling for legislative hearings to examine costs and planning related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium.
In a letter sent Thursday to Senate Budget Chairman Paul A. Sarlo and Assembly Budget Chairwoman Eliana Pintor Marin, GOP lawmakers requested joint hearings with the NYNJ FIFA 2026 Host Committee, which is chaired by former first lady Tammy Murphy.
The lawmakers said more information is needed about the state’s financial commitments and potential risks tied to hosting the international event.
“With New Jersey set to host one of the largest sporting events in the world, it is imperative that the Legislature and the public have a clear and complete understanding of the commitments made on behalf of taxpayers,” the lawmakers wrote. “While the event presents an opportunity to showcase our state, it also raises significant and unanswered questions about costs, risks and transparency.”
The letter outlines several areas lawmakers want addressed, including funding for transit, security, infrastructure and operations, as well as the extent of taxpayer subsidies and whether the state could face financial exposure if projected revenues fall short.
Lawmakers also questioned what safeguards are in place to prevent cost overruns.
The request follows recent testimony before the Assembly Budget Committee, where Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said funding is in place to meet security needs for the event. At the same time, NJ Transit is considering potential fare increases for World Cup-related travel, including higher prices for train and shuttle services to MetLife Stadium.
Republican lawmakers said the state has been preparing for the World Cup for several years but that key details remain unclear.
“The apparent disconnect between planning, public cost and execution demands immediate legislative oversight,” the letter states.
The lawmakers said hearings involving the Host Committee and those involved in negotiations with FIFA would help clarify the state’s role and ensure accountability.
With World Cup matches scheduled to begin in New Jersey on June 13 and state budget discussions underway, lawmakers emphasized the need for timely review.
“Time is of the essence,” the lawmakers wrote. “Conducting these hearings now will allow the Legislature to fully understand the scope of the state’s commitments and, if necessary, take appropriate action before costs escalate further.”
