FIFA World Cup Training Sites in US Receive Quality Checks from Duke Landscape Expert

Scott Thompson, Duke University’s Director of Landscape Services, has been appointed by FIFA as Pitch Venue Manager for two World Cup training locations in the United States: the University of North Carolina‑Greensboro site used by Norway’s squad and the Charlotte FC facility hosting Scotland’s camp. His responsibilities involve traveling to each venue multiple days a week, measuring field traction, moisture, surface hardness, ground cover and aesthetic upkeep, and providing data to ensure the pitches meet FIFA’s exacting standards and remain consistent across all 48 team venues in North America. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, relies on such inspections to guarantee high‑quality playing surfaces for participating nations.

Thompson’s work integrates specialized instruments and real‑time reporting to guide grounds crews, aiming to deliver fields that compare favorably with those in traditional soccer strongholds. His involvement showcases a collaborative effort between a university’s facilities management team and the global governing body, highlighting the logistical and technical preparation underpinning the tournament’s North American stage.