FIFA has announced the development of innovative technologies to ensure the highest pitch quality for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This initiative was highlighted during FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s visit to the University of Tennessee’s research and development center, specializing in pitch surfaces.
Infantino emphasized that these advancements would benefit global football, ensuring better playing conditions, enhanced player safety, and an optimal match experience.
Standardizing Pitch Quality Across All Climates
FIFA launched a five-year research project following the announcement of the host cities for the 2026 World Cup, aiming to standardize pitch conditions across diverse climates and stadiums.
The project has expanded through partnerships with the University of Tennessee and the University of Michigan, now also covering the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Infantino praised the cutting-edge technologies being developed, stating that these innovations will not only improve playing conditions for athletes but also elevate the overall match quality and enjoyment across 167 matches scheduled for both tournaments.
FIFA World Cup 2030: A Historic Multicontinental Edition
For the 2030 FIFA World Cup, FIFA has confirmed that Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will host the tournament, with Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay each hosting one celebratory match to mark the 100-year anniversary of the World Cup.
This edition will be unique, spanning three continents and six countries, with Uruguay hosting as the birthplace of the first World Cup in 1930. While Argentina and Spain have previously hosted the tournament, Portugal, Paraguay, and Morocco will be hosting for the first time.
Expanded Format: 48 Teams in 2026 and Beyond
Starting from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament will feature 48 teams instead of the traditional 32.
Saudi Arabia will be the first nation to host a 48-team World Cup alone, with the 2034 FIFA World Cup set to take place in the Kingdom. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was the last edition featuring 32 teams before the expansion.
With FIFA’s commitment to technological advancements in pitch quality and sustainability, future tournaments aim to provide an unparalleled experience for players and fans worldwide.
