FIFA Implements Science-Based Grass Management System for 2026 World Cup

FIFA has engaged turfgrass scientists John Trey Rogers III and John Sorochan to develop a science-based system ensuring uniform playing conditions across all 2026 World Cup venues, a response to field quality issues observed at the 2024 Copa América and recent warm-up matches. The project addresses the challenge of maintaining natural grass in eight stadiums that typically use artificial turf, including five with roofs that severely limit sunlight. Solutions include selecting appropriate grass species for each climate zone—Bermuda grass for warmer venues, cool-season grasses for cooler areas, and British Isles-native grass for low-light roofed stadiums—supplemented by artificial lighting rigs that lower over the field. Stadium infrastructure modifications have been substantial, with venues like Dallas, Kansas City, and Philadelphia removing seating or widening field areas to accommodate regulation soccer pitch dimensions. The surfaces must meet exacting FIFA standards: draining heavy rainfall while maintaining adequate moisture, remaining firm enough for fast play without becoming hard enough to injure players, and providing consistent ball bounce across all venues.