60-second Science

In this episode of Science Quickly, we explore the science behind preparing natural grass for the 2026 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup, a project in which researchers have worked to transform stadiums that typically use artificial turf into sites with elite playing surfaces. Turf experts have spent years testing grass species, refining growing methods and solving the logistical challenges of transporting and installing fields across North America. Their goal is to create consistent, high-performance pitches that can withstand intense play—and that are so seamless that the world’s best soccer players never have to think about the grass beneath their feet. Recommended Reading: The Surprising Math and Physics behind the 2026 World Cup Soccer Ball 2026 FIFA World Cup players and fans at risk of extreme heat, climate scientists warn Join our Summer Reading Challenge E-mail us at sciencequickly@sciam.com if you have any questions, comments or ideas for stories we should