SUGBK Grass Now Claimed to Be Suitable for Knee Slides After Thom Haye of the Indonesian National Team Injured His Knee

Kapanlagi.com - After undergoing a lengthy renovation process, the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) is now ready to welcome back football fans.

The quality of the grass, which is a pride of Jakarta, has reached prime condition, even meeting the standards for performing knee slide celebrations—a moment that drew attention after Thom Haye failed to execute it in the match against the Philippines.

As the Indonesian National Team approaches a crucial match on November 15, 2024, against Japan in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, the SUGBK grass has received intensive care and a series of improvements.

Rakhmadi Afif Kusumo, the President Director of the Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Center (PPKGBK), assured that the field is now in optimal condition to support the players' performance.

1. Renovation and Maintenance of SUGBK Grass

Since September 2024, the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium has been undergoing a highly anticipated grass repair process, where Rakhmadi Kusumo has emphasized the importance of this renovation to create an ideal field for the Indonesian national team.

By utilizing cutting-edge technology, the field maintenance team is implementing an innovative "lay and play" method, which not only ensures the grass is installed perfectly but also makes it more durable. As a result, the grass can grow faster and sturdier, creating a perfect playing surface for every upcoming match.

2. Rolling Technique and Grass Installation Process

One of the exciting breakthroughs in the maintenance of the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) grass is the implementation of an innovative grass rolling technique.

Rakhmadi Kusumo revealed that the newly planted grass is rolled with the aim of strengthening its integration with the soil.

This process not only accelerates growth but also strengthens the root network, so the SUGBK grass is expected to last longer and be ready to support high-intensity matches.

3. Inspection and Preparation Ahead of the Match

After undergoing a series of meticulous treatments, Rakhmadi Kusumo emphasized that a final inspection will be conducted to ensure the field is in prime condition before the Indonesian national team's match.

Not only that, the PSSI and the coach of the Indonesian national team are also involved in monitoring the condition of the field, providing valuable input for any necessary adjustments to guarantee the best performance of the players on the field.

4. Readiness of SUGBK as a Celebration Venue for Players

One of the most anticipated moments in every match is when players celebrate goals with great enthusiasm, especially during the knee slide that Thom Haye failed to execute in June 2024.

Now, after significant improvements have been made, the grass at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) is claimed to be strong enough to withstand such celebrations without the risk of injury.

This preparation is not only to enhance the comfort of the players but also to ensure that the stadium becomes a safe and joyful arena for every exhilarating goal celebration!

5. Monitoring and Field Testing

The General Chairman of PSSI, Erick Thohir, could not contain his admiration for the striking improvement of the SUGBK field that was evident on November 8, 2024.

In his view, the quality of the grass this time is far more impressive compared to before; the field looks smooth with a captivating bright green color and a perfectly flat surface.

Erick hopes that this beauty and quality can be maintained, so that every match held there becomes more impressive and satisfying.

(kpl/rmt)