The Audio Long Read: ‘The Silicon Valley of turf’ – how the UK’s pursuit of the perfect pitch changed football

Loading player...
They used to look like quagmires, ice rinks or dustbowls, depending on the time of year. But as big money entered football, pristine pitches became crucial to the sport’s image – and groundskeepers became stars. By William Ralston. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/footballweeklypod
18 Jun 2025 English South Africa Sports

Other recent episodes

A bad week in the Champions League for English clubs: Football Weekly Extra

Max Rushden is joined by Barry Glendenning, Nicky Bandini and Archie Rhind-Tutt as Premier League sides fail to win any of their games in this week’s Champions League last-16 first legs. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/footballweeklypod. Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FootballWeeklyPodcast
12 Mar 55 min