Soccer Players Union Slams Norwegian Football Federation’s Approach to Grass Fields

The debate about artificial turf in Norwegian professional football has reignited, with the head of the Norwegian players’ union, Kristoffer Paulsen Vatshaug, expressing disappointment at the federation’s (NFF) response. While the NFF acknowledges the benefits of natural grass, they maintain that the use of artificial turf is necessary, particularly in colder climates. Vatshaug criticizes this stance, arguing that the NFF should be more proactive in researching and implementing new technologies for natural grass fields, particularly in light of the growing evidence that natural grass can withstand colder temperatures with the use of new hybrid grass types. The debate is particularly heated due to the recent move to install hybrid grass on Ullevaal Stadium, the national stadium, and the upcoming EU ban on rubber granules used in artificial turf starting in 2031. The NFF argues that the use of artificial turf has contributed to the development of young players and the success of Norwegian football internationally. However, the players’ union insists that natural grass is still the preferred playing surface and that the NFF should prioritize its development.