A Ghanian supporter cheers on January 20, 2013 before the start of a 2013 Africa Cup of Nations football match between Ghana and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth. AFP PHOTO / STEPHANE DE SAKUTINGhana fans planning to follow the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup are set to face contrasting travel conditions across host cities, with costs and arrangements differing sharply between venues.Ghana will open their Group L campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before facing Croatia on June 20 in Philadelphia and rounding off the group stage against England on June 23 in Boston.According to details reported by The Athletic, Philadelphia has put in place one of the more fan-friendly transport plans. Supporters leaving Lincoln Financial Field after matches will be able to use the citys SEPTA transit system free of charge, with complimentary rides running from half-time until two hours after the final whistle. Inbound travel to the stadium will also remain at standard pricing, around $2.90.The initiative is backed by a partnership involving local organisers and sponsors, with officials in Philadelphia securing funding commitments exceeding $40 million to support World Cup preparations, including fan movement and safety operations. The city will host five group-stage matches and a round-of-16 fixture on July 4.In contrast, transport costs in Boston are expected to be significantly higher. Fans travelling to Ghanas game against England could pay about $80 for a round-trip train ticket, while other host cities such as New Jersey have announced even higher prices, with rail travel packages reaching up to $150.The report notes that while FIFAs original hosting agreements encouraged free transport for ticket holders, this was later revised to allow travel to be provided at cost, leading to wide variations between cities.Philadelphias central location also offers relatively cheaper intercity travel. A return rail trip from New York to Philadelphia has been priced as low as $35 on matchday, making it one of the more accessible options for fans compared to other venues.For Ghana fans, the differences could influence travel plans across the group stage, particularly for those aiming to attend multiple matches in North America.By Enoch Fiifi Forson



Source link

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR