Vasco to Revamp São Januário Pitch During World Cup Break

Brazilian club Vasco da Gama has started scheduled improvements to the São Januário stadium turf during the league pause for the World Cup. Greenleaf Gramados, the contracted grounds‑keeping firm, began work that includes aggressive cutting of the grass to under 20 mm, removal of excess thatch and leaves, and an overseeding program with ryegrass to boost density and durability.

The maintenance follows internal criticism over inconsistent grass height and playing surface quality, which the club’s technical staff and players said affected match tempo. The upgrades are part of the firm’s regular calendar for periods without matches and are not a direct response to the complaints. Vasco is set to return to competition on 22 July against Vitória, currently sitting 17th in the Brazilian Serie A with 20 points.

The expected outcome is a lighter, more uniform playing field that offers better conditions for football when the season resumes.