Maracanã field clears NFL tests after players’ association concerns
The NFL says the surface met mandatory requirements after joint testing with the NFL Players Association and an independent specialist.
The playing surface at Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã Stadium passed required tests on Friday, the NFL said, ahead of the scheduled Dallas Cowboys–Baltimore Ravens game. The announcement followed concerns from the NFL Players Association that loose, patchy grass could affect footing and performance.
NFL field director Nick Pappas said the testing was conducted with the players’ association and an independent specialist. He said the league had made further improvements to the surface, but the source provides no test measurements or independent findings.
The NFL said it has visited the stadium monthly since January. Pappas cited recent heavy rain and soccer matches at the venue as conditions affecting the field, and said the work included allowing it to rest and stitching the surface.
The Cowboys held a walkthrough at the stadium on Saturday to assess the footing. The game was scheduled for Sunday; the source does not confirm its outcome.
