Topline
Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s, D-N.J., office wants in on FIFA’s plan to sell patches of grass from the field of the World Cup final, according to Politico, as the federation looks to generate over $11 million from the sale.
Key Facts
Sean Higgins, a spokesperson for Sherrill, told Politico, “New Jersey paid for the vast majority of the total expense for the pitch at MetLife stadium, so New Jersey taxpayers should share in any proceeds from this latest money grab.”
The World Cup will feature a match between Spain and either England or Argentina, and will be played in MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
FIFA, according to multiple outlets, is selling small pieces of grass from the field for $450 per piece, with three other versions priced at $900, $1,200 and $3,000.
If New Jersey and FIFA strike an agreement, it is unclear how the proceeds will go to taxpayers in the state.
Forbes has reached out to Sherrill’s office for comment.
What Exactly Do The Grass Patches Include?
The $450, $900 and $1,200 tiers include 2.5″ x 2.5″ x 2.5″ patches of grass. Though it is unclear what differentiates them, it is possible patches from the goal area, penalty spot and center circle could cost more. The $3,000 version has a 3″ x 3″ x 3″ section, a gold-etched metal souvenir ticket, a mini replica World Cup final ball and a crystal-cut glass World Cup trophy, according to The Athletic, which says FIFA could generate $11.2 million if all pieces sell out.
Key Background
FIFA has sold grass patches before, offering pieces from the Club World Cup final between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain last year. The items were sold in a glass-encased cube containing real grass and soil from the final. Grass patches from this year’s World Cup final are one of several pricey items offered by FIFA for the tournament. Soccer’s governing body is also selling limited edition host city jerseys for $375 a piece. Tickets for the tournament have been historically high, though various matchups including the quarterfinal matchup between Belgium and Spain have seen prices tumble on the secondary market. Tickets for the World Cup final start at $7,443 on the secondary market as of Tuesday, according to TickPick.
Further Reading
Ticket Prices Collapse Nearly 60% For World Cup Quarterfinal Match After USA, Portugal Eliminated (Forbes)