Football

Salt Lake Stadium Pitch Undergoes Major Overhaul Ahead of Brazil and Uruguay Friendlies

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 30, 2026, 12:14 IST

Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata has completed a significant pitch renovation led by Brazilian expert Ivan Nascimento to meet international standards for upcoming friendly matches against Brazil and Uruguay.

Salt Lake Stadium Pitch Undergoes Major Overhaul Ahead of Brazil and Uruguay Friendlies

The Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata has undergone a comprehensive transformation to its playing surface, ensuring the venue is prepared to host upcoming international football friendlies against Brazil and Uruguay. The project was initiated following concerns raised by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) regarding the pitch conditions after the initial announcement of the fixtures.

To address these requirements, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) enlisted the expertise of Ivan Nascimento, an arena management specialist from Brasilia. Nascimento spent a month on-site, overseeing a rigorous renovation process designed to elevate the stadium's grass surface to meet the standards expected for high-profile international competition.

Restoring the Pitch to International Standards

The renovation focused heavily on correcting structural and agronomic issues that had developed since the stadium last hosted major international events during the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup. Nascimento noted that the primary challenges included significant unevenness in the soil and excessive grass height, which necessitated a systematic approach to surface management.

The technical team implemented a series of interventions, including aeration to improve soil health and the use of rollers to flatten the playing area. Furthermore, the team addressed the accumulation of paint in the pitch markings, which had previously hardened the soil. By coordinating daily operations with local ground staff, Nascimento’s team successfully adjusted fertilization and mowing schedules to create a consistent, high-quality surface.

Ensuring Player Safety and Performance

According to Nascimento, the ultimate objective of the overhaul was to provide a stable and healthy pitch that minimizes the risk of player injury while ensuring optimal conditions for the match. The project involved a collaborative effort between the visiting Brazilian agronomic specialists and the local stadium maintenance crew.

The successful completion of these works marks a significant development for the venue as it prepares to welcome the five-time world champions and Uruguay. By focusing on soil stabilization and precise agronomic adjustments, the stadium management aims to deliver a professional-grade playing field suitable for the demands of international football.