Clubs ask CBF to pause new synthetic pitches until 2026 meeting | OneFootball

Several Serie A club officials at Thursday’s Technical Council meeting in Rio de Janeiro asked the CBF to halt approval of new synthetic pitches until a study is completed and a decision is taken.

According to Globo.com, any ruling could include a ban with a transition to natural grass, though there is no sign this will be adopted. Most directors are currently against artificial surfaces.

Clubs also urged the confederation to hear players. In February, Neymar, Thiago Silva, Gabigol and Philippe Coutinho voiced opposition to artificial turf on social media.

The CBF plans to revisit the topic in February or March and does not expect teams to seek stadium changes before then. Earlier this season it commissioned an injury study comparing both surfaces, which found no major differences. It now wants technical factors, including pace of play and possible competitive advantages, on the agenda.

The confederation views complex matters as requiring stronger evidence and club participation, and is weighing a governance model with a qualified quorum or minimum review periods.

The first quarter of 2026 meeting is also set to discuss the limit on foreign players and a possible reduction in relegated sides to Serie B, which would require input from the second tier.

Flamengo has led the opposition, amid its rivalry with Palmeiras, which has used synthetic turf at Allianz Parque since 2020. This week it proposed a ban with a Serie A transition until 2027 and an extra year for Serie B, prompting protests from Athletico-PR, Atlético-MG, Botafogo, Chapecoense and Palmeiras.

Source: Globo.com