KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — With the University of Tennessee playing a key role in preparing the playing surfaces for this 2026 FIFA World Cup, officials from world soccer’s governing body visited Knoxville once again on Thursday as the most-watched event in sports draws closer.
FIFA partnered with Tennessee and Michigan State University to create the best natural grass playing surfaces at all 16 host cities and dozens of training facilities across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Both schools were selected for their renowned turfgrass management programs.
FIFA president visits Tennessee campus as school continues 2026 World Cup project
UT researchers hosted FIFA officials and field managers for a Pitch Management Field Day event on Thursday to review progress made on the project with the opening match less than four months away.
Among those in attendance was FIFA Senior Pitch Management Manager Alan Ferguson, who has overseen playing surfaces for 23 FIFA tournaments since including the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Women’s World Cup…