ARLINGTON (May 14, 2026) Media received an exclusive first look inside Dallas Stadium in Arlington as officials unveiled the FIFA World Cup 2026™ pitch following its installation ahead of this summer’s tournament.
AT&T Stadium General Manager Tod Martin highlighted the extensive stadium transformation process that has taken place in advance of FIFA World Cup 2026™, including upgrades throughout club spaces and key fan-facing areas, while also detailing the complex installation and maintenance of the natural grass playing surface. The pitch was grown in Colorado and installed by Precision Turf, and was carefully cultivated, transported to Arlington, and installed. To establish and maintain the pitch, the stadium is using advanced grow-light systems, irrigation and air-infiltration technology and temperature-control measures to ensure tournament-quality conditions throughout all nine matches hosted at the stadium.
FIFA’s Head of Pitch Infrastructure, Ewen Hodge, also discussed FIFA’s groundbreaking five-year sports turf research initiative conducted in partnership with the University of Tennessee and Michigan State University. The research focused on player welfare, pitch consistency, climate adaptability and innovative technologies, including shallow-stitching systems designed specifically for stadium environments hosting FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches.
Officials also addressed operational planning topics related to the tournament, including transportation, security coordination, and fan experience surrounding stadium areas.
Dallas Stadium in Arlington will host nine FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches, welcoming fans from around the world to North Texas this summer
