The report says MetLife will use natural grass supplied by Tuckahoe Farms for matches involving teams including Brazil, France, Germany and Senegal. ’s preference for natural surfaces has put the issue in sharp focus, particularly because the stadium’s regular tenants will not retain the pitch.
That contrast is driving the campaign in New Jersey: if natural grass is considered suitable for elite international football, advocates argue, it should not be dismissed as impractical for local players.
A study cited in the report found that 75% of 1,129 elite players across 44 countries preferred high-level matches to be played on natural grass. NFL player surveys have reportedly shown an even stronger preference, with more than 90% favouring quality natural surfaces.
The report also highlights concerns surrounding artificial turf:
Those figures have made heat exposure, player welfare and disposal costs central to the New Jersey discussion.
The political pressure is now extending to public funding. A proposed state measure would reportedly prevent Green Acres money from supporting artificial-turf projects, putting future field decisions under greater scrutiny.
The next test will come after the World Cup, when MetLife’s natural surface is expected to be removed. The return to artificial turf for the Jets and Giants could determine whether the campaign fades-or becomes one of New Jersey football’s most important off-field debates.