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Preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continue to accelerate in the United States. Today, the natural grass pitch at MetLife Stadium, temporarily renamed New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament, was officially installed ahead of this summer’s matches.
The venue will host one of the most anticipated games of the group stage: Morocco vsBrazil on June 13.
Usually home to NFL games played on artificial turf, the stadium underwent major modifications to comply with FIFA standards. Around 600 rolls of natural grass grown in North Carolina were transported to the site and laid over a 45-centimeter sand base designed to improve drainage and stability.
The field also includes its own ventilation and irrigation systems to maintain playing quality throughout the tournament, despite the stadium not having a retractable roof. According to technicians on site, the grass panels were connected using a specialized machine that resembled a giant sewing machine.
The stadium will host eight matches during the tournament, including the final on July 19.
Matches scheduled at New York New Jersey Stadium
- June 13 – Morocco vs Brazil (Group C)
- June 16- France vs Senegal
- June 22- Norway vs Senegal
- June 25- Ecuador vs Germany
- June 27- Panama vs England
- June 30- Round of 16
- July 5- Quarterfinals
- July 19- Final
The match between the Atlas Lions and the Seleçao is already being viewed as one of the standout fixtures of the opening round, especially in a stadium that will play a central role throughout the tournament.
Morocco has also finalized its World Cup base camp plans. The national team will stay at the Pingry School in New Jersey for the duration of the competition.
