Following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, a dispute has erupted between New Jersey officials and FIFA over the sale of natural grass from MetLife Stadium, where the final was held.
The Athletic reported on July 19 that New Jersey criticized FIFA and the local organizing committee for profiting from the sale of grass funded by taxpayer dollars, arguing that the revenue should benefit residents.
The controversy began when FIFA announced it would sell pieces of the grass preserved from the final. The official FIFA online store lists basic grass souvenirs for $450, with premium options priced at $900, $1,200, and $3,000. Each product is limited to 2,026 units. If all items sell out, projected revenue could reach $11.2 million, intensifying the debate.
New Jersey officials are particularly concerned that the cost of installing the stadium's grass was largely borne by taxpayers. According to The Athletic, the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) invested approximately $13.04 million in design, construction, and maintenance equipment to install natural grass that met FIFA standards. NJSEA is a public agency that operates the sports complex housing MetLife Stadium. A spokesperson for the New Jersey governor stated, "Since New Jersey residents spent millions preparing the stadium, the sales revenue should also be shared with them."
Republican members of the New Jersey legislature echoed these sentiments. Assemblyman Mike Inganamort remarked, "Selling grass installed with taxpayer money without permission could be illegal," adding that legal action should be considered if necessary. He emphasized, "The grass was cultivated with New Jersey taxpayers' money, yet FIFA is reaping all the profits. The sales revenue should go to New Jersey residents."
In response, FIFA refuted claims that it would pocket significant sales revenue. The organization stated, "The grass sale is led by the host city committee, and FIFA will receive less than 5% in royalties for trademark use," calling assertions that FIFA would earn $11 million a blatant distortion of the facts.
According to FIFA and organizing committee officials, the grass being sold represents only about 5 yards (approximately 4.6 meters) of the field, and most of the sales revenue will go to the New York-New Jersey host committee, which plans to reinvest it in local projects and sports initiatives. However, New Jersey maintains that the benefits should directly accrue to its residents.
This dispute highlights ongoing tensions between New Jersey and FIFA that have persisted throughout the World Cup. Earlier, New Jersey raised the fare for a special train service between Manhattan and MetLife Stadium from $12.90 to $98, leading to clashes with FIFA, which expressed concern that the steep fare increase could deter fans. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill countered, "FIFA, which is making enormous profits, should also bear transportation costs."
Additionally, during the World Cup, the stadium's name was changed to 'New York New Jersey Stadium,' prompting Sherrill to argue that 'New Jersey New York Stadium' would be more appropriate given New Jersey's investment and contributions, further escalating tensions with FIFA.
The Athletic noted that New York and New Jersey invested hundreds of millions for the World Cup, expecting an economic impact of about $3.3 billion, although there are concerns that these projections may be overstated.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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