The 2026 World Cup is set to take place in North America, featuring an expanded field and matches spread across 16 cities in three countries. To ensure top-notch playing surfaces for the tournament, FIFA has collaborated with turf experts from the University of Tennessee and Michigan State University.
With 48 teams playing 104 matches in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, FIFA aims to avoid the field issues that plagued a recent major tournament. The Copa América faced criticism for its shaky surfaces, prompting FIFA to prioritize research and preparation to prevent similar problems.
Experts like John Sorochan, a professor of turfgrass science and management at Tennessee, emphasize the importance of meeting FIFA's high standards to avoid any failures during the World Cup. The partnership between UT and MSU, both renowned for their turf programs, has been instrumental in addressing the field challenges.
Climate change poses an additional consideration, given the diverse locations of the World Cup matches. Turf experts are exploring various grass varieties to address potential climate-related issues, such as heat and drought tolerance.
Tennessee has developed a shade house to simulate indoor stadium conditions, while Michigan State is experimenting with growing turf on plastic instead of soil for stadium surfaces. These efforts aim to ensure that the playing surfaces meet FIFA's expectations and provide optimal conditions for the matches.
Looking ahead to the World Cup, the goal is clear: to have the playing surface go unnoticed. By focusing on research, innovation, and meticulous testing, the turf experts are determined to deliver top-quality pitches that enhance the overall football experience for players and fans alike.
