FIFA and New Jersey clash over plan to sell the grass at MetLife Stadium

FIFA and New Jersey clash over plan to sell the grass at MetLife Stadium FIFA and New Jersey officials are on a collision course after reports claimed that the governing body plans to sell pieces of the World Cup final pitch as collectable memorabilia, The Athletic reports. While FIFA are looking for new ways to profit from the World Cup, state leaders are adamant that taxpayers deserve a share of the proceeds. FIFA recently began offering small sections of the grass from the World Cup final field for sale on its website. Each piece is preserved in resin and will be shipped after the final.  The standard version costs $450, while premium editions are available for $900, $1,200 and $3,000. Every version is limited to 2,026 pieces, meaning the full collection could generate more than $11 million if every item is sold. The sales have been criticised because New Jersey taxpayers funded the installation of the natural grass.  According to public records, the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority spent more than $13m on designing, building and maintaining the field so it would meet FIFA’s strict tournament requirements. The authority also oversees the Meadowlands Sports Complex, where MetLife Stadium is located. Governor Mikie Sherrill’s office believes that if FIFA profits from selling parts of the field, New Jersey should also benefit.  A spokesperson for the governor said that because taxpayers covered the cost of creating the pitch, they should receive a share of any money made from its sale. Republican Assemblyman Mike Inganamort argued that FIFA should not be able to sell pieces of a taxpayer-funded field without proper approval.  He claimed the grass was installed on state-owned property and questioned whether the sale complies with the rules governing public assets.  “It is American-grown grass paid for by the taxpayers of New Jersey and planted at a state-owned complex,” he said.  “The sale must follow all the rules and laws that dictate how state surplus property is sold.  “It must benefit New Jersey taxpayers — not FIFA or a host committee that splits resources across New Jersey and New York. “FIFA’s World Cup was bankrolled by New Jersey taxpayers, and they have walked all over us. This is the final insult. It is time this administration stands up to them.”