SEATTLE — The United States recently got a glimpse of the new grass installed at Lumen Field in preparation for this summer’s World Cup.
The USWNT faced Japan on Tuesday night, playing on the freshly laid hybrid grass, which combines natural grass with synthetic fibers. This marked the team’s first visit to Lumen since 2017 due to previous use of artificial turf.
Japan triumphed in the second match of the three-game friendly series with a score of 1-0, after the U.S. won the first match on Saturday.
In 2022, a collective bargaining agreement was reached that ensured equal pay for the women, alongside improvements in playing conditions, which include competing exclusively on suitable grass fields.
U.S. coach Emma Hayes emphasized the significance of bringing the national team back to the Pacific Northwest. Over 35,000 tickets were sold for the match, setting a new record for a standalone women’s game in Seattle. Previously, Megan Rapinoe’s retirement match with the Seattle Reign in 2023 attracted 34,130 fans.
“Returning to this area was a goal of mine. I wanted the opportunity, and thanks to the CBA, we aim to play on grass fields, which has facilitated this chance,” Hayes remarked. “I’m thrilled we seized it and achieved a record turnout for a women’s game here.”
FIFA mandates that World Cup venues adhere to strict field requirements. Thus, all stadiums in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico hosting World Cup matches this summer must feature grass fields.
Of the eight World Cup stadiums—seven in the U.S. and one in Canada—only Vancouver’s BC Place does not have artificial turf, while the others primarily serve as homes for NFL teams.
In Seattle, the grass installation commenced last month. A drainage system was built, and nearly a foot of sand was laid prior to the sod installation. The grass and supporting structure will be removed after the World Cup concludes.
Lumen Field is the venue for the NFL’s Seahawks, MLS’ Sounders, and NWSL’s Reign. The Sounders and Reign have been relocated temporarily during the grass installation, playing some matches in Spokane.
The Sounders will debut on the new grass on Wednesday, facing the Mexican club Tigres in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal.
Seattle is slated to host six World Cup matches starting in June, with four scheduled for the group stage and two during the knockout round.
This report contains information from The Associated Press.