MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, has installed a new natural grass turf in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to stadium officials. The venue, temporarily renamed New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament, will host eight matches including a group stage game between Morocco and Brazil and the final on July 19, 2026.
The new field, a hybrid of natural grass and synthetic fibers, was laid in early May 2026 to ensure optimal playing conditions. The stadium typically uses artificial turf for NFL games but switched to grass for the World Cup as required by FIFA regulations.
Stadium representatives confirmed the turf installation was completed on schedule, with testing and maintenance ongoing. The Morocco vs Brazil match is scheduled for June 2026, though exact dates have not been finalized by FIFA.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026. MetLife Stadium will also host a round of 16 match and a quarterfinal.
