As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, organizers have undertaken an unprecedented effort to ensure that playing surfaces across the tournament’s 16 venues deliver a consistent and high-quality experience for athletes. Spearheading this initiative is turf grass scientist John Sorochan of the University of Tennessee, in collaboration with John “Trey” Rogers of Michigan State University. Since 2018, the pair have led the FIFA Pitch Research Project, a multiyear undertaking aimed at creating ideal natural grass fields tailored to varying climates—from Toronto’s cooler weather to Guadalajara’s heat—and diverse settings, including indoor stadiums.

The goal is to develop playing surfaces capable of withstanding almost 40 days of intense use while maintaining near-identical performance characteristics from one stadium to the next. This level of uniformity is designed to meet the expectations of elite players such as Lionel Messi and Vinicius Jr., ensuring that the field itself does not impair technical skill or endurance.

Dr. Sorochan’s background combines both academic training and hands-on turf management expertise. Beginning his career at the University of Calgary, he eventually shifted from political science and geology to turfgrass science while working at golf courses and studying at Michigan State. His early involvement with the 1994 World Cup, particularly the challenge of growing grass indoors for matches at the Pontiac Silverdome, marked a pivotal moment. That project involved portable hexagonal modules transplanted indoors under minimal light, necessitating close study of wear patterns caused by repeated player movement.

The 1993 U.S. Cup provided an initial test of such turf technology, with positive feedback from figures like England manager Graham Taylor, who noted that the pitch left no excuse for poor performance. Since then, advances have included grow lights, hybrid reinforced turf, and carefully engineered root zones to replicate natural grass resilience and appearance in various environments.

Turfgrass itself, Sorochan explains, is fascinating both biologically and functionally. Though there are thousands of grass species worldwide, just a few dozen are suited for turf applications due to their unique ability to grow densely, withstand traffic, and recover quickly from frequent mowing. Bermuda grass is favored for sports fields, thanks to its extensive underground stems that help anchor and rejuvenate the surface. Breeding efforts focus on improving drought tolerance and minimizing fertilizer needs, but controlling pests—both insect and human—is also a key challenge.

One significant development has been the creation of a device called the Flex, which uses a 3-D printed foot to simulate athlete movements on turf. Sensors embedded within the apparatus measure parameters such as traction, surface displacement, and the energy returned to the foot upon contact. This data allows researchers to assess how different pitches respond to athletes of varying sizes and weights, helping to align field characteristics with official playing regulations.

The evolution of soccer itself has influenced turf design. With the sport’s rising pace and technical demands over the past three decades, players require surfaces that enable precise ball control and consistent bounce. Sorochan highlights the Spanish national team’s 2010 World Cup triumph as an example of how a smooth, reliable pitch can elevate technical skill and ball possession.

As the World Cup nears, the implementation of these scientifically engineered fields demonstrates a commitment to optimizing the playing environment. By harmonizing grass science with the practical needs of modern soccer, FIFA aims to deliver a tournament where the turf supports, rather than hinders, the highest level of competition.