A Transit‑Driven Fan Experience
Tens of thousands of World Cup supporters have taken advantage of special buses and trains that shuttle fans from Union Station to the matches, opting for public transportation instead of driving. The round‑trip fare is a modest $3.50, and the service is backed by a fleet of World Cup‑liveried buses and a cadre of ambassadors who guide passengers through the station.
LA Metro has turned the journey into part of the spectacle, hiring hundreds of staff, installing calming pods, hydration stations and even a giant television screen in the Fan Zone where supporters can soak up the atmosphere together. Families like that of Jorge Yunda gather at Union Station to feel the tournament’s energy before the games even begin.
For many fans, the choice is practical. Avoiding traffic and expensive parking — some would have spent up to $200 on a spot — makes the $3.50 ride an obvious winner. Brandon Luna and Brian Stanton have spoken about how the experience feels both fun and relaxing, turning a simple commute into a highlight of the event.
The popularity of the transit option is reflected in the numbers: more than 20,000 riders have used the dedicated World Cup buses for each match, with ridership climbing throughout the tournament. The June 18 Switzerland‑Bosnia and Herzegovina match alone saw over 52,000 passengers arrive via the special service, underscoring a broader shift toward collective, cost‑effective travel.
Beyond the immediate convenience, LA Metro sees this surge as a proof point for its long‑term vision. The agency aims to launch the most ambitious transportation infrastructure program in the United States, using the World Cup’s momentum to showcase a future where public transit is the default choice for major events.