When the World Cup was first announced, many people, including myself, celebrated the news as a potential win for New Jersey. However, after reading about the backroom deals that will benefit FIFA at the expense of New Jersey taxpayers, I no longer support the event. It raises the question of why an organization that will make billions from the event is entitled to receive handouts at the expense of taxpayers. It is unjust for New Jersey to agree to such deals, and no sporting organization should be exempt from paying taxes, including FIFA.
Additionally, providing free public transportation to the event seems unnecessary, as we have managed well without it for other major sporting events and concerts. MetLife Stadium has successfully accommodated large crowds for events like concerts, so there should be no need for special treatment for the World Cup. I urge Governor Phil Murphy to reconsider these agreements and ensure that New Jersey taxpayers are not burdened any further. Our taxes are already high enough, and we should not be shouldering the costs of an event that will bring in significant profits for FIFA.