El Paso Grass Scientist Prepares Turf for Upcoming World Cup Matches

As the World Cup kicks off on June 11, John Trey Rogers, a turfgrass expert from Michigan State University, is ensuring that the grass fields at 16 North American venues are ready for the event. This six-year project involved meticulous planning and research, beginning in late 2020, to select the best grass types for various climates, including Bermuda grass for warmer areas and a mix of Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass for cooler locations. The challenge is heightened by the need to replace artificial turf with natural grass in several stadiums, some of which are domed and require special irrigation and lighting systems to sustain the grass. Rogers and his team aim to provide optimal playing conditions to prevent injuries and enhance player performance during the tournament.

Key Details: • World Cup starts on June 11, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches. • Grass types chosen include Bermuda for warmer climates and a mix for cooler areas. • Special irrigation and grow lights will be used in domed stadiums. • Sod for Houston's pitch was harvested in Colorado and transported over 1,000 miles.