Copa America Pitch Problems are a Cause for Concern
This year’s Copa America has received harsh criticism for its subpar playing surfaces. Players and managers describe the fields as “frustrating,” and detrimental to game quality. Players experienced poor conditions at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Dallas’s AT&T Stadium, which led to complaints of inconsistent, patchy, and sometimes hazardous surfaces.
Peru manager Jorge Fossati suggested that the imported grass might have contributed to his captain’s Achilles tendon pain. Other managers echoed these concerns, noting the unnatural feel and impact on player performance. Despite efforts to improve conditions, such as installing temporary grass and advanced irrigation systems, issues like uneven bounce and dryness persist.
John Mallinson, an expert on soccer pitches, highlighted the challenges of using recently laid turf. Proper drainage and even subsurface conditions are essential for high-quality fields. As the U.S. prepares for the 2026 World Cup, these early problems in major American stadiums underscore the urgent need for improvements to meet international standards.
