The NFL says Maracanã Stadium’s field passed required tests Friday ahead of Sunday’s Cowboys-Ravens game, after the NFL Players Association raised concerns about loose, patchy grass and slipping. An independent specialist and an NFLPA representative took part in the inspection.
Checks during the week by the league and NFLPA-hired experts had found the grass insufficiently stable for a game. NFL field director Nick Pappas said the league has visited monthly since January; recent rain and matches by Flamengo and Fluminense were factors, and work included resting and stitching the surface.
NFLPA executive director JC Tretter said such conditions were generally more a playability and performance issue than a significant injury concern, while player safety remained the primary issue. Cowboys players tested the surface in a Saturday walkthrough. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday, with Dallas as the home team.
