2026 came with challenges, the turfcare industry faced record breaking heatwaves, month long droughts, increased chemical restrictions, an on-going list of challenges and obstacles. But throughout everything, the industry continues to thrive. The FIFA World Cup shone a light on football surfaces at the highest level, The Solheim cup highlighted sustainability in golf, Wimbledon returned as the leading grass court tennis tournament. The list goes on. 

And now, as 2026 draws to a close, Turf Business is taking the opportunity to celebrate this perseverance. To commend the resilience, applaud the innovation and once again spotlight the individuals making their mark on the turfcare industry. The visionaries, the pioneers and those leading from the front. Turf Business is excited to announce the return of Turf’s Top Influencer for 2026.  

The award is unique in its approach, being voted for by industry professionals, celebrates excellence in turfcare.  Nominees possess high levels of skill, knowledge and experience and work tirelessly to improve the industry. Turf’s Top Influencer is a show of the best the industry has to offer.  

2025 saw Stuart Wilson claim first place, Pitch Manager at Croke Park Stadium (at the time of winning). The first time entry for Stuart saw him come out on top, praised for leading a history making team in the first NFL game played in Ireland, as well as his work at Croke Park Turf Farm.  

On his win Stuart said “I feel very privileged to be mentioned among some of the leading names in sportsturf Management and it is an honour to receive the award. I have always thoroughly enjoyed what I do, and have worked tirelessly to promote the evidence based science and professionalism in our industry.”   

Stuart joins the list of previous winners, who together represents the pinnacle of excellence within their respective fields. Paul Burgess, Karl Standley, Steve Braddock, Karl McDermott, Paul Larson, Henri Lansbury and Scott Tingley complete the list of previous winners. An exclusive list, voted for by their peers and representing the best of the best within the industry.  

Year on year the award grows, with social media flooding with support for industry professionals, and 2026 stands to continue that tradition.  

The first round of nominations will produce a short list of candidates who will be presented to the industry before the final voting commences. So, the only question left to answer- who is your Turf’s Top Influencer for 2026?  

Click here to nominate your winner