A member of Principality Stadium grounds team has helped prepare one of the world’s most high-profile sporting venues for the FIFA World Cup 2026 after taking up a temporary role at SoFi Stadium in California

Groundsman, Rhys Cleverly worked alongside turf management specialists at the Los Angeles venue, contributing his expertise while gaining first-hand experience of the latest innovations in stadium pitch technology and operations.

During his time in the United States, Cleverley has been involved in preparations for major international football fixtures and has supported work on SoFi Stadium’s pioneering hybrid grass pitch system.

The project has seen the venue transition from its traditional NFL artificial playing surface to a natural grass pitch designed to meet FIFA World Cup requirements.

The innovative system combines natural grass with advanced irrigation, drainage and airflow technology, creating a world-class playing surface capable of hosting multiple elite football matches while maintaining pitch quality throughout a demanding schedule of fixtures.

Originally from Caerphilly, Rhys’ passion for maintaining playing surfaces extends beyond his role at Principality Stadium.

He is heavily involved with his local rugby club, Caerphilly RFC helping to maintain the club grounds while also coaching the youth team, giving back to the grassroots game in his community.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to be part of a project on this scale,” Cleverley said.

“SoFi Stadium is preparing to host some of the biggest matches in world sport and it’s been brilliant to work alongside talented grounds teams and specialists from across the industry.

“While I’ve been able to share some of the experience and knowledge we’ve developed at Principality Stadium, I’ve also been learning from some of the best people in the business and gaining exposure to new technologies, systems and ways of working.

“Being involved in preparations for a World Cup venue is something I’m incredibly proud of and an experience I’ll carry with me throughout my career.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to Wayne Billing at Hatko Turf and Chris Carnahan at Precision Turf for offering me the opportunity to spend nine weeks in the United States. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one that wouldn’t have been possible without his support.

“I’d also like to thank Lee Evans and everyone at the WRU for giving me the time and backing to pursue this opportunity. Their support has meant a great deal and reflects the importance they place on developing people and sharing knowledge across the industry.

“Finally, I’d like to thank Chris Chang, NFL Turf and Grounds Manager at SoFi Stadium, for welcoming me into the team and supporting me throughout the process.

“He’s been incredibly generous with his time and knowledge, helping me develop new skills, build my confidence and get the most out of this experience. I’m looking forward to bringing those lessons back to Cardiff and sharing them with the team.”

The opportunity highlights the reputation of Principality Stadium grounds team, who manage one of the world’s busiest multi-use stadiums and regularly deliver playing surfaces for international rugby, football and major live events.

“We’re all incredibly proud of Rhys,” Head Groundsman at Principality Stadium, Lee Evans, added.

“Opportunities like this don’t come around very often and it’s a real reflection of his ability and the reputation of the team here at Principality Stadium. To be trusted to work on a World Cup host venue is a huge achievement.

“One of the great things about our industry is the willingness to share ideas and learn from each other.

“Rhys has gone out there with a wealth of experience of his own, but working alongside other leading professionals and seeing different systems and technologies first-hand is invaluable. The whole team will benefit from that when he returns.”

Upon his return to Cardiff, Cleverley will rejoin the team under Lee Evans as work begins to regenerate and prepare Principality Stadium’s pitch for the FA Community Shield before transitioning the surface back for Nations Championship this Autumn.

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