MetLife Stadium has begun installing natural grass ahead of the 2026 World Cup final. During the tournament, the venue will operate as “New York New Jersey Stadium” and is set to play a central role as both the final host and a key logistical hub of the competition in the United States.

Natural grass arrives at the stadium

On Wednesday, installation of the natural grass pitch began at the MetLife Stadium, which will operate under the name New York New Jersey Stadium during the World Cup. The grass was delivered from farms in North Carolina, and the entire process is part of FIFA’s long-term preparations for the tournament.

The new surface is not just an ordinary grass field. Organisers introduced a hybrid system with reinforcing elements as well as special ventilation and pitch maintenance solutions. This is necessary because the stadium was primarily designed for American football and normally uses synthetic turf.

FIFA representatives emphasised that the pitch preparations are being carried out under very strict procedures. The venue is not expected to host additional test matches before the World Cup, with the first game on the new surface set to be a June friendly between Brazil and Morocco.

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Stadium set to become the centre of the World Cup in the USA

MetLife Stadium is expected to play one of the most important roles during the 2026 World Cup. The venue, with a capacity of more than 82,000 spectators, was selected to host the World Cup final on July 19, 2026. In total, the stadium will stage eight matches during the tournament.

This will not be the first major event hosted at the venue. The stadium has already staged the Copa América Centenario final and Super Bowl XLVIII. However, the World Cup is expected to become the biggest logistical challenge in the stadium’s history, especially because of the enormous global interest anticipated for the event.

In line with FIFA regulations, the stadium will also temporarily lose its commercial naming rights. During the tournament, all MetLife branding will be covered or removed.

© section215 (cc: by) | The 2026 World Cup final is getting closer as MetLife Stadium continues its transformation with hybrid grass installation and major transport changes around the stadium.

Transport and surrounding area face major test

Alongside the stadium works, transport preparations are also underway across the entire Meadowlands complex. Organisers estimate that during each match, more than 78,000 fans will need to be transported efficiently to and from the stadium. NJ Transit and dedicated rail and bus services are expected to play a key role.

The plan follows a transit-first model, aimed at heavily limiting car traffic. In practice, this means a very limited number of parking spaces around the stadium and a strong emphasis on public transport. Secaucus Junction will serve as the main transfer hub, with special trains and buses operating exclusively for ticket holders.

Transport prices have already sparked controversy. Initially, a round-trip train ticket from Manhattan to the stadium was expected to cost as much as $150. Following criticism, the price was reduced to $105, although the issue continues to generate debate among fans and local authorities.