Specifically developed for football, they feature a blend of synthetic grass fibres and infill materials of sand and rubber granules, designed to mimic the feel and playability of natural grass. This innovation provided improved shock absorption, better traction, and enhanced ball interaction characteristics.

Their introduction revolutionised football globally, offering a reliable and consistent playing surface that could withstand heavy use and varying weather conditions.

Professor Forrester’s inaugural lecture will explore how engineering has enhanced player experience on artificial turf. She will discuss the evolution of pitch design, the role of the governing body’s regulations, and the importance of player experience in this process.

She will also consider the role of engineering in maintaining pitch performance throughout its lifespan of a decade or more. Finally, she will discuss the future of these pitches, in a society where environmental legislation is driving changes to pitch design; and how engineering can play a vital role in finding new solutions that continue to provide acceptable play performance.