World Cup final pitch: Type of grass, and how the 2026 field at MetLife Stadium took FIFA eight years to develop

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina is scheduled to take place on Sunday at MetLife Stadium. The natural grass surface used for the match is the result of eight years of research and development by FIFA. Despite appearing ordinary, the pitch represents a significant scientific effort to produce a playing surface suitable for the world's biggest football match.