Turfgrass Research Making Headlines Around the World
Media outlets across the globe turn their attention to UT’s turfgrass research for FIFA World Cup 26.
FIFA Returns to UT for Final Pitch Management Research Field Day Ahead of World Cup 26
Turfgrass specialists, sod farmers, stadium managers and other professionals gathered to discuss final preparations including data-driven decisions around pitch testing, management, protection and aesthetics as well as stadium-specific setup considerations and lighting.
Today Show Visits Rocky Top
The FIFA World Cup 26 pitch management team launched a five-year research and development project with UT and Michigan State University. The initiative — now expanded to include the first-ever FIFA Club World Cup — aims to produce perfect playing surfaces, ensuring consistency and top performance for players regardless of climate or stadium type.
UT Hosts Third FIFA Pitch Research Field Day
Researchers and leaders from UT, Michigan State University and FIFA gathered to review progress toward creating the optimal natural grass pitches for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
FIFA President Visits UT, Hails Groundbreaking Turf Research for Upcoming World Cups
Infantino praised the efforts led by industry-leading expert John Sorochan, Distinguished Professor of Turfgrass Science and Management in UT’s Herbert College of Agriculture, and thanked university leadership for their support in bringing the project to fruition.
UT, MSU, FIFA Convene for Second FIFA Pitch Research Field Day
UT researchers and leadership met with FIFA officials to review progress toward developing the perfect natural grass pitches for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
UT Leads Research Project to Create the Perfect Pitches for FIFA World Cup 2026
The FIFA World Cup Tournament 26™ poses unique challenges for the delivery of uniform and consistent natural grass pitches.