The upcoming 2026 World Cup is set to take place in North America, marking an ambitious expansion of the field by 50% and encompassing 16 cities across three countries. The partnership between FIFA and turf experts at the University of Tennessee and Michigan State University aims to develop the best surfaces for the tournament. With 48 teams and 104 matches scheduled across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, the focus is on ensuring that the playing field does not become a topic of controversy as it did during the recent Copa América tournament.
During the Copa América tournament, which occurs every four years, shaky surfaces became a point of contention for players and teams. Criticism arose regarding the grass field that replaced artificial turf, with some describing it as a “disaster.” This highlighted the importance of having high-quality playing surfaces for major competitions like the World Cup. FIFA is determined to avoid any similar issues during the 2026 World Cup and is investing heavily in research and preparation.
Professor John Sorochan from the University of Tennessee, along with his mentor Professor Trey Rogers from Michigan State University, are leading the efforts to ensure the perfect pitch for the World Cup. Their expertise was instrumental during the 1994 World Cup held in the United States, where games were played indoors. The partnership between the universities and FIFA aims to utilize their extensive knowledge to create the ideal playing surfaces for the upcoming tournament.
One of the key challenges for the 2026 World Cup is the variance in climates across the host countries. From Mexico to Canada, the weather conditions can differ significantly, impacting the playing surfaces. The turf experts are exploring various grass varieties that can withstand heat, drought, disease, and wear. Tennessee has developed a shade house to simulate indoor stadium conditions, while Michigan State is experimenting with growing turf on plastic instead of soil. These innovative approaches aim to create resilient playing surfaces for the diverse environments of the World Cup.
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, the goal is to ensure that the playing surface does not become a point of discussion during the tournament. By leveraging the expertise of turf scientists and conducting rigorous research, FIFA is committed to providing top-notch pitches for the teams and players. The advancements in turfgrass breeding and surface technology will play a crucial role in delivering an exceptional football spectacle for fans around the world.
The preparations for the 2026 World Cup highlight the importance of having high-quality playing surfaces to enhance the overall experience for players and spectators. With the collaboration between FIFA and turf experts, the goal is to create the perfect pitch that will meet the demands of a major international tournament. The innovations in surface technology and the dedication of the research teams are crucial in ensuring a successful and unforgettable World Cup in North America.