Semi Final FIFA U-17 World Cup Mexico on Artificial Grass

BRUSSELS, July 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Thursday, the semi final of FIFA U-17 World Cup between Brazil and Uruguay will be played in the state-of-the-art Omnilife Stadium. This Latin American semi-final will have a truly European touch: the ingenious pitch is developed and produced by the European grass specialist Desso Sports Systems.

State-of-the-art Stadium

The iconic home of Football club Chivas in Guadalajara Mexico is a true landmark, as it resembles a volcano. Since its inauguration, it has been the centre for many sporting highlights, such as the inauguration match between Chivas and Manchester United, the Copa Libertadores and currently the FIFA U-17 World Cup.  Estadio Omnilife is perfectly integrated into its environment, the green surroundings providing the inspiration for the stadium's design.

High Tech grass pitch

Artificial turf was an obvious choice here.  Playing on an artificial turf pitch is always possible, no matter what the weather conditions.

Desso's latest development in artificial grass, Desso iDNA, was installed during the construction of the stadium. The surface was chosen for its natural playing characteristics enabling technically perfect football and its durability. The pitch enables Chivas to have both training and matches in the stadium.  Thanks to the artificial grass, the stadium has a pitch that remains in optimal condition, regardless of the weather.  

FIFA supports the development of high quality Football Turf

Desso is FIFA Preferred Producer for artificial grass worldwide. The collaboration seeks to create football fields that meet the optimal requirements of professional clubs and the sport in general. As a result, communities or football clubs that have a field installed by a FIFA Preferred Producer will be assured a high-quality field by a reliable supplier.  The contract is a logical continuation of both FIFA's drive to stimulate artificial turf pitches from a cost-and quality perspective and Desso's commitment to develop and produce quality sports fields through constant innovation. The football turf pitch at Omnilife stadium is a FIFA 2 star Recommended pitch.

Desso has strong local representation in Mexico through Advance Surfaces Mexico. Clients in Mexico include Chivas, Tijuana, Cruz Azul, Estadio Caliente, the University of Coahuila and the University of Nuevo Leon at Monterrey.

About Desso Sports Systems

Desso Sports Systems is the international leader in innovative sports fields for football, rugby and hockey pitches as well as tennis courts and multifunctional fields. Over time, the company has installed more than 50 million m² of artificial turf at both amateur and professional clubs all over the world.

Wembley stadium, Arsenal FC, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Arsenal FC, Green Bay Packers and many more top clubs play on Desso grass.  

The company is part of DESSO, known for its high quality carpet tiles and broadloom. DESSO's innovation strategy is concentrated in 3 key areas: Creativity, Functionality and Cradle to Cradle®.

SOURCE Desso Sports Systems