Huge metallic arms suspended above the Dallas stadium pitch are emitting purple light to help prepare the natural grass ahead of the venue’s first match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 14.

The venue, currently known as AT&T Stadium and set to be renamed Dallas Stadium during the tournament, is the home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys in Arlington.

With a capacity of 94,000 spectators, it will be the largest stadium at the tournament and the most heavily used, hosting nine matches.

Like several NFL venues, the artificial turf has been replaced with natural grass laid over a 60-centimeter layer of growing soil using massive turf rolls cultivated in Colorado from Kentucky bluegrass.

Todd Martin, the stadium’s general manager, expressed confidence that the new pitch will be in perfect condition for the opening match between the Netherlands and Japan.

To support the grass growth, an underground irrigation system has been installed, while 18 long metallic arms fitted with purple lights stimulate photosynthesis whenever the air-conditioned stadium roof remains closed to protect players and fans from extreme heat.