New Jersey Governor Criticizes FIFA Over the Sale of the Turf from the 2026 World Cup Final
Authorities in the U.S. state of New Jersey have expressed outrage over FIFA’s plans to sell the turf from the 2026 World Cup final. The state’s governor called the initiative unacceptable.
Governor Maike Sherrill and local lawmakers have spoken out against FIFA’s plans to sell pieces of the field at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford after the tournament. A spokesperson for the governor stated that taxpayers, who paid for the turf replacement, should receive a share of the proceeds. The World Cup final will take place on July 19.
“As the governor has already said, New Jersey paid millions of dollars for the stadium’s turf, and state taxpayers should receive a share of the proceeds,” Sherrill’s team stated.
FIFA has put pieces of the turf up for sale for $450. The cost of more expensive options reaches 3,000 “greenbacks.” The federation insists that the lion’s share of the proceeds will go to the regional organizing committee, while FIFA will receive only nominal royalties.
As a reminder, Turin’s Juventus announced the signing of Turkish national team defender Zeki Çelik, who left Roma after his contract expired.
The Spanish national team became the first finalist of the 2026 World Cup, defeating France in the semifinal match.
Fabio Capello has voiced his support for the changes to the 2026 World Cup.
