Why is MetLife Stadium installing a natural grass pitch?
FIFA requires natural grass for World Cup matches to ensure optimal playing conditions.
Sports / Soccer
MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is preparing to host eight matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the final. A key part of this preparation is the installation of a natural grass pitch to replace the existing artifici...
MetLife Stadium, primarily used for NFL games, traditionally features an artificial turf surface. However, for the World Cup, FIFA requires a natural grass pitch to provide the best possible playing surface for the tournament. The installation process is complex, involving the removal of the existing turf and the construction of a layered system to support the new grass.
The Tahoma 31 bermudagrass was selected for its suitability to the climate in New York and New Jersey during the summer months. The grass was grown over 10 months at a specialized turf farm before being transported to the stadium.
The new pitch includes an advanced irrigation system and vacuum ventilation to manage moisture and temperature, ensuring the grass remains healthy throughout the tournament. A giant sewing machine on wheels will stitch all the parts together to create a cohesive playing surface.
FIFA requires natural grass for World Cup matches to ensure optimal playing conditions.
Tahoma 31 bermudagrass, grown at Carolina Green Turf Farm.
The initial installation took several weeks, with ongoing maintenance throughout the tournament.
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