The quality of soccer fields in the United States has raised concerns ahead of the 2026 World Cup, as players have previously criticized the playing surfaces during major tournaments. Argentine goalkeeper Emi Martínez described the field at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium as problematic, while Chelsea's Reece James noted issues with the pitch at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. FIFA has begun collaborating with grass researchers to improve the quality of the grass in U.S. stadiums, which are primarily designed for American football and often use artificial turf. The transition to suitable grass surfaces is complicated by the short preparation time and varying climate conditions across the tournament's locations.
Differences in grass height and type can significantly affect gameplay, with improper conditions leading to injuries and poor performance. In preparation for the World Cup, researchers have been experimenting with grass blends to enhance durability and playability. Innovations include the use of plastic fibers to stabilize the grass and LED grow lights to aid in recovery between matches. Despite the efforts, many stadiums may face challenges in maintaining high-quality grass due to their multipurpose nature and tight timelines. After the tournament, it is likely that the grass will be removed, with some cities considering alternative uses for it.
