Wenger Vows Better Pitches at 2026 World Cup
FIFA's Head of Global Football Development Arsène Wenger has pledged that pitch conditions will improve significantly for the 2026 World Cup, following widespread complaints during the ongoing Club World Cup in the U.S.
Wenger admitted the turf quality at several venues, including Orlando, has fallen short of international standards. 'It's not at the level that the European clubs are used to,' the former Arsenal boss said. 'But that will be rectified for the World Cup next year.'
Coaches and players, particularly from European clubs, have voiced concerns about dry, patchy fields and temporary grass laid over artificial surfaces. PSG coach Luis Enrique called out the conditions after his team's 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid, saying, 'The ball bounces like a rabbit.'
He added: 'If we're calling this the best club tournament in the world, it should have world‑class facilities. I can't imagine an NBA game played on a court full of holes.'
Wenger reassured that both stadium and training pitches will meet the required standards for 2026, when the U.S., Canada, and Mexico host the expanded tournament.
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