How To Ensure Surface Quality With The FIFA Quality Programme
The FIFA Quality Programme was launched in 2009 as a means to establish a quality standard for artificial turf soccer surfaces across the globe. A rigorous testing protocol, both in the laboratory and on the field, was developed to focus on key areas such as:
- Interaction between the player and the surface
- Interaction between the ball and the surface
- Product composition
- Weather resistance
- Seam strength
- Surface Durability
As a FIFA Preferred Provider, FieldTurf has met and exceeded the stringent requirements and necessary experience set by the governing body. Only a handful of manufacturers have earned the status of Preferred Provider.
Products must be tested in laboratory and then once again on-site, after the installation is completed. FIFA awards the FIFA Quality mark to pitches that meet the standard for community and amateur pitches, and the FIFA Quality Pro mark to pitches that ensure the highest playing performance for professional-level football. Each level has its set of requirements to meet.
FieldTurf currently boasts a total of 261 FIFA certified turf pitches (49 FIFA QUALITY PRO and 212 FIFA QUALITY), which is more than any other artificial turf manufacturer in the world. As well as over 800 certified products, also a world leader. Dated July 12th, 2022
By using the FIFA Quality Programme, field owners & communities can ensure a defined level of quality and performance. As the process audits the products and the actual installation, the strict parameters allow for peace of mind throughout the process, verified by FIFA-accredited external parties. The system that is provided for testing must be installed at the venue. The program guarantees that the synthetic turf suppliers install what they promised.
To host matches of certain competition levels, the surface must be approved to FIFA Quality or FIFA Quality Pro. By planning to certify the project from the start, field owners open the possibility of welcoming additional premier events to their stadium.
In the MLS, every club playing on artificial turf has trusted FieldTurf – Atlanta United FC, Charlotte FC, New England Revolution, Seattle Sounders, Portland Timbers, and Vancouver Whitecaps. Each venue is certified by the FIFA Quality Programme.