Gillette Stadium returns to turf after hosting World Cup matches

Gillette Stadium has switched back to artificial turf following the removal of the natural grass installed for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Seven World Cup matches took place on the grass surface before it was replaced. The NFL Players Association criticized the decision, highlighting a disparity in field quality for NFL players versus soccer players. Many Patriots players expressed their preference for grass, citing concerns over player safety and injury rates associated with turf. The NFLPA conducted a poll showing 92 percent of players prefer natural grass.

• 10:14 PMYahoo Sports — NFLPA protests as Gillette Stadium trades World Cup grass for turf