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Discussions are further clouded by misinformation. For example, claims that prominent players like Lionel Messi refuse to play on synthetic fields have been debunked. In fact, Messi participated in four matches staged on artificial grass last year. Such inaccuracies complicate the dialogue surrounding synthetic turf, leading to fear-based arguments that may not be entirely justified.
FIFA's Position: A Complicated Relationship
The FIFA endorsement of synthetic grass complicates the debate further. Critics argue that while FIFA backs artificial pitches, the primary goal of synthetic turf seems to revolve around hosting large events and maintaining field usability, rather than primarily enhancing the quality of the game itself.