FIFA is hoping to monetize the World Cup final even after the match ends, announcing Saturday that segments of the pitch will be sold starting at $450 per piece. The governing body aims to generate over $11 million from the sale, according to The Athletic.

Players and coaches have criticized the field quality at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium, which typically uses artificial turf for NFL games. FIFA renamed the venue to New Jersey New York Stadium for the tournament. The turf for the final was reportedly grown at a farm in North Carolina.

The official store describes the product: “Own a genuine piece of football history with an authentic 2026 FIFA World Cup Piece of the pitch, permanently preserved in a premium acrylic with a USB keepsake.” Each piece is 17.5 x 17.5 x 17.5, though units are unspecified. Shipping is limited to the U.S. and Europe, with orders fulfilled after the final.

Four tiers of turf souvenirs are available: $450, $900, $1,200, and $3,000. The top tier includes a gold-etched replica ticket, a miniature World Cup ball, and a crystal-cut trophy. No more than 2,026 pieces are available per tier.

FIFA is also selling regular final tickets up to $32,970 and hospitality packages for $34,500 and $32,500. New turf fields were installed at all World Cup venues, including those with artificial surfaces. There is no word on what will happen to unused turf fields.

Source: www.aljazeera.com