NFL stadiums switch to grass for World Cup as players advocate for change
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 10:50 PM
Last updated Jun 26, 2026
As the 2026 World Cup begins, several NFL stadiums, including SoFi Stadium, have replaced synthetic turf with grass. Players like George Kittle and Jermaine Eluemunor have voiced their preference for grass surfaces, citing health benefits. Kittle highlighted the disparity between FIFA's installation of grass and the NFL's ongoing use of turf. Despite the grass being used for World Cup matches, the debate over field surfaces continues with the NFL Players Association urging for permanent changes. The tournament will feature 78 soccer matches across 11 NFL venues, all now equipped with high-quality grass.
- •Eleven NFL stadiums host World Cup matches this summer.
- •Seven of these stadiums typically use synthetic turf for NFL games.
- •George Kittle and Jermaine Eluemunor advocate for permanent grass fields.
- •NFLPA surveys show 92% player preference for grass over turf.
- •Pittsburgh Steelers announced grass surface replacement at Acrisure Stadium.
- 10:11 PMYahoo Sports — George Kittle makes pitch for NFL to use grass fields amidst World Cup
- 10:50 PMYahoo Sports — NFL stadiums swapped turf for grass ahead of 2026 World Cup. George Kittle thumping for permanent change: 'Clearly we know it's possible'
"Of the 11 NFL stadiums hosting World Cup games this year, seven traditionally use synthetic turf as their primary playing surface for NFL games.
"The veteran NFL star has seen stadiums transition to grass to host the World Cup, and wants a similar change for his league.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 29, 2026, 10:11 PMGeorge Kittle makes pitch for NFL to use grass fields amidst World Cup
The veteran NFL star has seen stadiums transition to grass to host the World Cup, and wants a similar change for his league.
- Yahoo SportsJun 26, 2026, 10:50 PMNFL stadiums swapped turf for grass ahead of 2026 World Cup. George Kittle thumping for permanent change: 'Clearly we know it's possible'
Of the 11 NFL stadiums hosting World Cup games this year, seven traditionally use synthetic turf as their primary playing surface for NFL games.
Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Oct 23, 2026, 1:25 AMCaleb Williams’ Net Worth: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know
NFL•Oct 23, 2026, 1:11 AMEagles’ Saquon Barkley has ultimate belief in Jalen Hurts coming back stronger from blood clots
NFL•Oct 23, 2026, 12:59 AMRams-Raiders injury report: Puka Nacua gets hurt, 2 other starters DNP
NFL•Oct 23, 2026, 12:49 AM‘The Bird Reich’: Atlanta Falcons roasted over throwback logo with Nazi resemblance- NFL•Oct 23, 2026, 12:41 AMSeahawks make exciting Zach Charbonnet roster move for Week 7 vs. Chiefs
NFL•Oct 23, 2026, 12:39 AMGiants defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson slams players for 'unacceptable' lack of hustle against Saints
