FIFA Mandates Natural Grass at 11 NFL Stadiums for 2026 World Cup as 92% of Players Prefer It
Updated
Updated · Sports Illustrated · Jun 18
FIFA Mandates Natural Grass at 11 NFL Stadiums for 2026 World Cup as 92% of Players Prefer It
3 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated · Jun 18
Summary
Eleven NFL stadiums hosting 2026 World Cup matches must install FIFA-compliant natural grass, including MetLife Stadium, which is set to stage the final.
Seven of those 11 NFL venues normally use artificial turf, highlighting a sharp contrast between FIFA’s safety standards and the NFL’s continued reliance on synthetic surfaces.
The NFLPA says 92% of players prefer grass, and league injury data from 2012-18 showed a 28% higher rate of noncontact lower-extremity injuries on turf, including 32% more knee injuries and 69% more foot and ankle injuries.
Owners have resisted permanent grass largely on cost and logistics, since many stadiums host concerts and other events, even as the NFL generated more than $23 billion in revenue last fiscal year.
With record profits, why does the NFL argue that the cost of safer grass fields is too high for its players?
Is the grass vs. turf debate ignoring new technology that could solve the safety and cost issues for NFL stadiums?
The 2026 World Cup’s Natural Grass Experiment: Player Welfare, Stadium Logistics, and Environmental Costs
Overview
The 2026 World Cup stands out for FIFA’s strict requirement that all 16 host stadiums use natural grass, reflecting strong player preference and lessons from past tournaments. This mandate is driven by overwhelming support from athletes, with 92% of NFLPA members favoring grass over artificial turf, and is made possible by modern technology and expertise. Implementing this across diverse venues is a major logistical challenge, prompting FIFA to launch a sophisticated pitch program with custom-grown grass, continuous monitoring, and advanced maintenance. These efforts aim to ensure high-quality, safe playing surfaces throughout the tournament, despite complex conditions and tight schedules.