A HARDEN-based sports turf research company is a major player in an initiative to keep Premier League football pitches amongst the world’s best.
Consultants from STRI Group have worked with Premier League bosses to produce a pitch standards framework.
The document outlines requirements for establishing and maintaining an elite surface, able to perform to the highest standards and help protect players’ safety.
It is the first framework of its kind ever published by the Premier League.
Senior grounds people from all top-flight clubs, and the Grounds Management Association, were consulted during its development.
A spokesperson says: “Serving as a reference for club management, league organisers and stakeholders involved in pitch management, the document outlines the Premier League’s rules and expectations.
“It is packed with guidance on everything from pitch construction profiles, drainage and irrigation to hosting concerts and managing pitches in winter weather, alongside a raft of informative case studies.”
Adam Kaliniecki, Premier League football operations manager, says: “This is a fantastic document which reflects the hard work and professionalism of grounds teams in the Premier League who work tirelessly to ensure our pitches are the best in the world.
“The expertise and knowledge of the consultants from STRI was invaluable in leading the project. The data they gathered and interpreted was a vital part of the process, and the ongoing collaboration with grounds teams resulted in a resource that effectively benchmarks best practice in the industry.”
Richard Stuttard – group director at STRI, based on the St Ives estate – welcomes the company’s involvement.
He says: “We are incredibly proud to have worked alongside the Premier League and leading grounds professionals in developing the pitch standards framework.
“This document sets a new benchmark for elite pitch management, combining robust data, industry insight and the collective experience of those at the top of the game. It is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the grounds community.
“We believe the framework will serve as a vital resource for years to come, driving innovation and setting the standard for world-class playing surfaces.”
STRI Group was founded in 1929 and has grown into a global design, engineering and management consultancy.
It plans, creates and maintains facilities such as sports pitches and golf courses.
The company has provided support at every FIFA World Cup since 2010 and will have a major role in ensuring pitches are up to standard at the 2026 tournament.
