FIFA's Controversial Sale of World Cup Final Turf Sections

FIFA has stirred controversy by selling sections of the World Cup final turf for $450 each, raising eyebrows over the exorbitant ticket prices and the quality of the temporary grass laid at MetLife Stadium. Each piece comes in a premium acrylic box, but shipments are limited to the US and Europe. The decision has faced backlash from players and fans alike, especially given the high costs associated with attending the tournament. This article delves into the details of FIFA's retail strategy and the surrounding criticism.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 08:22 IST

FIFA's Unique Retail Strategy

The international governing body of football, FIFA, has announced a surprising initiative to commercialize the pitch used in the World Cup final. For an astonishing price of USD 450 (approximately ₹42,989), FIFA is offering individual sections of the grass turf that will be laid out at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey for the upcoming final. This latest retail move has sparked significant backlash against FIFA, particularly regarding the exorbitant ticket prices for the tournament held in the United States. Each piece of turf measures 17.5 by 17.5, although the official FIFA digital store does not specify the unit of measurement—whether it is in millimeters, inches, or centimeters.

What Comes with the ₹42,989 Turf Piece?

What's Inside The ₹42,989 Box?

According to FIFA's website, each unique piece of the playing field from the July 19 final will be preserved in a high-end acrylic box, marketed as a premium collectible for football enthusiasts. The product is presented in an elegant hinged shoulder box featuring an attractive spot UV design and includes a sleek USB souvenir along with an authenticity film aimed at collectors. However, FIFA has restricted shipments to addresses within the US and Europe, leaving fans from other regions unable to purchase this item. Furthermore, FIFA has stated that no orders will be dispatched before the final whistle of the tournament.

Controversy Surrounding the Turf Sale

Controversy Over the Turf

The decision to sell sections of the turf has not been without its critics. MetLife Stadium, home to the NFL's New York Giants and Jets, typically features an artificial playing surface. For this World Cup, FIFA has laid down temporary natural grass, which has faced harsh criticism from players and coaches for its poor quality and inconsistent texture. The current ticket price inflation aligns with the hefty ₹42,989 cost for a piece of grass, as standard grand finale tickets can reach up to USD 32,970 (around ₹31.4 lakh), while premium hospitality packages, which include food and beverages, range from USD 32,500 (approximately ₹31 lakh) to USD 34,500 (about ₹32.9 lakh).