Tri-Rail ridership kicks into high gear as World Cup crowds near

Since Inter Miami CF’s inaugural season at Miami Freedom Park in April, the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) has been reporting record-breaking Tri-Rail ridership numbers.

On Sunday, May 17, following the Inter Miami CF match against Portland at Nu Stadium, Tri-Rail exceeded 8,600 rides, surpassing its previous record of 8,400 that was reached during the Ultra Music Festival in 2024. The new home stadium is within walking distance of Tri-Rail’s Miami Airport Station.

“This record-setting ridership reflects the growing excitement surrounding Inter Miami CF and the important role public transit plays in supporting major sporting events,” said Diane Hernandez Del Calvo, SFRTA interim executive director. “These numbers reinforce the growing demand for Tri-Rail service to get you to major events in South Florida.”

On Saturday, April 25, the transportation authority reported the second-highest Saturday ridership in its history. Tri-Rail recorded 9,854 rides that day, which was within 300 rides of the all-time Saturday ridership record set in 2024. The surge is directly tied to fans taking the train to the Inter Miami CF soccer games.

“Our team has worked hard to ensure fans have a seamless travel experience before and after these matches,” Ms. Hernandez Del Calvo added. “As South Florida prepares to host the World Cup this summer, Tri-Rail is ready to move thousands of residents and visitors safely and efficiently across the region.”

The region’s commuter rail system is preparing to play a major role during the World Cup, not only by helping fans travel more efficiently, but by reshaping how residents and visitors think about public transit in South Florida, she said. Taking the train transforms game days into part of the experience itself. Instead of worrying about parking lots, navigating traffic, or designating a driver, passengers can simply board the train and enjoy the ride alongside other fans.

Fans will be able to board Tri-Rail trains at any Tri-Rail station and arrive at the Golden Glades Station, where they can connect directly to shuttle services that will transport them to stadium areas. The service is available exclusively to verified game-day ticket holders. A special train service will depart about an hour after the game, so fans can enjoy the game until the last minute, knowing the train will be waiting for riders.

“We are going to be able to move fans from Palm Beach and Broward into Miami, as well as from downtown Miami into one of the official game day express hubs,” Ms. Hernandez Del Calvo said. “And it’s going to be a coordinated effort with our regional partners.”