The subgrade and sub-base are just as important in ensuring the quality and playability of a pitch as the football turf itself. The FIFA RECOMMENDED quality mark is therefore only awarded for the installation as a whole, not for the surface.

Two-phase testing process

To be awarded this mark, pitches are required to undergo two phases of stringent testing conducted by FIFA-accredited test institutes.

High standards are set, with natural grass in top condition providing the benchmark. As well as being tested in the laboratory, after it has been installed the football turf undergoes field tests to check the composition and various characteristics such as durability, weather resistance and the interaction of the ball, player and surface.

If the installation passes both series of tests, it receives the FIFA RECOMMENDED quality mark, awarded only to the highest-quality installations.

FIFA RECOMMENDED categories

Since the International Football Association Board decided to incorporate artificial turf into the Laws of the Game in mid-2004, there have been two different quality standards, with the FIFA RECOMMENDED 2 STAR quality mark complementing the FIFA RECOMMENDED 1 STAR mark.

- FIFA RECOMMENDED 1 STAR is the demanding standard for amateur and grassroots football with outstanding properties that are able to withstand heavy daily use. 

-  FIFA RECOMMENDED 2 STAR also offers top-class characteristics, but is tailored towards the specific needs of elite football, guaranteeing a durable top-quality playing surface at a lower level of use than in grassroots football.   

Maintenance matters!

Regular appropriate maintenance is essential to the long-term playability of a football turf pitch. The pitch’s playing life will be seriously reduced if it is not cared for properly. Brushing and cleaning the pitch correctly and checking seams will ensure not only enjoyable playing conditions in the long term, but also that the installation will be recertified.

No universal compliance guarantee

Being awarded FIFA RECOMMENDED certification does not mean that the football turf installation complies with all other international or national guidelines, for instance on pitch size or pitch markings. All equipment must be in line with safety regulations. For international matches, the Laws of the Game apply, and for other matches the competition regulations of the respective national association.