Miami-Dade Transit scores big win as fans choose free stadium shuttles for FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Opener

Miami-Dade County's Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) scored a major victory for soccer fans during Miami's first FIFA World Cup 2026™ match, with nearly 13,000 ticketholders choosing to travel to Miami Stadium on the County's free Game Day Express shuttles. Nearly one in four fans attending the Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay game traveled from one of the County's four official shuttle hubs, highlighting public transportation as a convenient and stress-free way to get to the action.

"On Monday, Miami-Dade County delivered on the world stage," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. "Fans from around the globe trusted us to get them to one of the biggest sporting events in the world, and together we provided a safe, seamless, and memorable experience. This is a proud moment for our community and another example of what we can achieve when we work together."

Verified ticket holders accessed the County's free Game Day Express service through four official transportation hubs: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza Metrorail Station, Golden Glades Intermodal Terminal, Aventura Brightline Station, and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (LOT 70). From those locations, direct shuttles transported fans to and from Miami Stadium, helping thousands avoid traffic and parking challenges while allowing fans to arrive in time for kickoff.

The strong turnout shows that fans are embracing Miami-Dade County's "Drive Less, Celebrate More" campaign. Thousands used Metrorail, Metrobus, Metromover, and the Shuttles to travel to Match 1 and the FIFA Fan Festival™ at Bayfront Park. Ridership on Metromover is up systemwide, with opening day volume surpassing levels seen during Ultra Music Festival by approximately 30%.

"We prepared for this moment, and Monday's success reflects the passion, dedication, and teamwork that allowed us to deliver," said Stacy L. Miller, P.E., Director and CEO of Miami-Dade County’s Department of Transportation and Public Works. "Our goal was simple: get fans to the action safely, efficiently, and without stress. Nearly 13,000 fans trusted us to get them to the match on time, and we value that. Six matches remain, and we look forward to welcoming fans back and delivering a smooth journey to their celebrations.”

Miami will host six additional FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches on June 21, June 24, June 27, July 3, July 11, and July 18. Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive at one of the County's official transportation hubs up to four hours before kickoff to ensure a smooth trip to Miami Stadium. Fans should expect some time in line before boarding the shuttles. Monday's wait times were approximately 15-to-30 minutes depending on the transportation hub and fans’ time of arrival. Unlike other modes of transportation, fans taking the County's free shuttle service arrived in time for kickoff. Keep in mind that there will still be a 15-minute walk from shuttle drop off area to the stadium.

Fans attending weekend matches can also take advantage of additional free shuttle service from Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, offering another convenient option for reaching Miami Stadium.

For FIFA World Cup 2026™ transportation information, including shuttle schedules, rideshare information, and travel tips, visit miamidade.gov/wc26mobility

To stay informed about transit service updates and alerts, riders can sign up at miamidade.gov/alerts or follow @GoMiamiDade on  Facebook,  X , LinkedIn,and Instagram, and @IRideMDT on X.