In a groundbreaking development, Canadian John Sorochan played a pivotal role in the creation of the turf for all 16 World Cup stadiums. Following the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener in Vancouver, Australian goalkeeper Patrick Beach was impressed not by the crowd or ambiance, but by the quality of the grass pitch.
Sorochan, a distinguished professor of turfgrass science and management at the University of Tennessee, spearheaded the extensive research and testing that was necessary to ensure the fields met FIFA standards. The meticulous process involved analyzing the ball’s interaction with the turf, using advanced equipment to measure various factors like bounce height and ball velocity.
Collaborating with Michigan State University, Sorochan and his team conducted rigorous experiments in different conditions to tailor the grass to each stadium’s unique requirements. The World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, presented a challenge due to the diverse climates and stadium types across the three countries.
To maintain consistency in playing conditions, Sorochan’s team used a blend of Kentucky bluegrass and ryegrass for indoor stadiums and Bermuda grass for outdoor venues. Each type of grass demanded specific care and maintenance protocols to ensure uniform performance across all stadiums.
After years of hard work and dedication, the responsibility of managing the turf has now shifted to individual stadium teams equipped with specialized irrigation systems and UV lights. Despite the challenges, Sorochan is proud to hear positive feedback from players, who have praised the quality of the playing surface during the World Cup matches.
The success of Sorochan’s turf development efforts has not only garnered acclaim from the soccer community but has also highlighted the crucial role that meticulous research and innovation play in enhancing sports infrastructure on a global scale.
