Knicks title run could overlap with World Cup, causing potential headaches at Penn Station
Gothamist • • sports
Key Points:
- The New York Knicks are close to reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, but potential scheduling conflicts with the 2026 World Cup at MetLife Stadium could disrupt commuter transit at Penn Station.
- NJ Transit has implemented restrictions giving World Cup ticketholders priority access to trains between Penn Station and Secaucus Junction during match days, limiting other passengers' travel four hours before and three hours after each game.
- The first two World Cup matches in New Jersey, on June 13 and 16, coincide with Games 5 and 6 of the NBA Finals, potentially complicating travel for Knicks fans commuting from New Jersey to Madison Square Garden.
- NJ Transit advises non-FIFA customers to limit travel on match days, while the MTA plans to maintain regular subway and Long Island Rail Road service at Penn Station, though details on handling increased crowds remain unclear.
- Knicks fans express frustration over transit restrictions, with some considering watching Finals games outside New York due to anticipated travel difficulties during the World Cup events.