3G Pitches
INCREASING LEVELS OF PITCH USE
In recent years, football has seen huge innovations and investment in the development of artificial surfaces. 3G Football Turf Pitches (FTPs) now allow the game to be played on surfaces which replicate the playing qualities of good quality natural grass pitches, whilst increasing the levels of use.
3G Football Turf is a blend of grass-like fibres attached to a special backing with a mix of sand and/or rubber brushed in. 3G FTPs come with a longer grass blade and are in-filled with rubber granules, giving characteristics you’d associate with playing on a high-quality natural pitch such as ball bounce, ball roll, surface hardness and grip.
TYPES OF 3G PITCHES
The FA allow competitive fixtures to be played on two types of 3G FTP: FIFA Quality Pro Turf: this is the highest grade of surface and is designed to mirror Premier League and international level grass pitches. It requires an annual test certificate to ensure it maintains the right quality for use.
Clubs playing in Steps 1 and 2 of the National League System are required to have this level of surface. Usage of the surface should be limited to a maximum of 20 hours a week to maintain its quality. FIFA Quality Turf: this is the most common type of 3G turf used due to its ability to accommodate far higher usage levels each week.
This surface requires testing annually for clubs playing at Steps 3-6 of the football pyramid, Women’s Super League and FA competitions. Testing is required every three years for all other levels of affiliated football. All 3G FTP pitches with a valid test certificate can be found on The FA 3G register.
More information on 3G FTPs, their design, use and maintenance can be found in the following FA Guide:
FA Football Turf Pitches Tech Guide