The 2026 FIFA World Cup final venue, MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, has become the center of controversy after players from Brazil and France criticized the pitch conditions. Following matches on June 13 between Brazil and Morocco (1–1) and on June 16 between France and Senegal (3–1), players and coaches from both teams expressed dissatisfaction with the field. Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior said the dry grass slowed the game due to heat, while French coach Didier Deschamps described the pitch as “different” and “special.” Midfielder Adrien Rabiot went further, calling it as hard as artificial turf and questioning whether it met international standards.

FIFA dismissed the complaints, stating there was no reason for concern about the field’s quality. The organization said it had worked for over five years with turf experts and stadium authorities to ensure the best and safest conditions for players. FIFA added that despite visual concerns about some areas, its turf management team found the surface fully compliant and performing as expected for a major tournament.

The stadium is scheduled to host the World Cup final on July 19, along with several knockout and group-stage matches before that date.