Amtrak is smashing ridership records. Is it ready to handle the World Cup?
Amtrak is preparing for a surge in ridership during the upcoming World Cup, following record-breaking passenger numbers in recent years. The rail service is expected to play a significant role in transporting fans across the Northeast Corridor, where many matches will take place. However, the system faces challenges related to capacity and infrastructure as it gears up for the event.
- ▪Amtrak has broken ridership records for two consecutive years, reaching 34.5 million passengers last year.
- ▪The World Cup is expected to bring as many as 10 million people to the US, testing Amtrak's capacity and reliability.
- ▪The Northeast Corridor, where Amtrak owns the track, is near maximum capacity and operates around 150 trains per day.
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Soccer fans relied on Amtrak for travel during last year’s Club World Cup. The rail service is expecting heavy usage during this summer’s World Cup. Photograph: Carl Recine/FIFA/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenSoccer fans relied on Amtrak for travel during last year’s Club World Cup. The rail service is expecting heavy usage during this summer’s World Cup. Photograph: Carl Recine/FIFA/Getty ImagesWorld Cup 2026Amtrak is smashing ridership records. Is it ready to handle the World Cup?The United States’ rail system has a dedicated customer base, but remains a niche option for most this summerBenton GrahamSun 24 May 2026 11.57 EDTLast modified on Sun 24 May 2026 11.58 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleSebastian Caillat didn’t know how fascinating the dental industry could be until he…
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