The FIFA World Cup 2026, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, could pose severe challenges for players and fans due to dangerously high summer temperatures. Scientists have warned that several matches during the tournament may be played in conditions exceeding safety limits recommended by global football authorities. The expanded tournament will feature 104 matches during June and July, typically the hottest months in many host cities.
Climate Study Reveals Heat Risks
A study by the climate research group World Weather Attribution found that nearly one-fourth of the matches could take place in risky heat conditions. Researchers used the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index, which measures heat and humidity together to assess how the human body reacts in extreme weather. According to the findings, around five matches may even reach unsafe levels where postponement would be strongly advised.
FIFPRO Calls for Stronger Safety Plans
The global football players' union FIFPRO reiterated its concerns regarding extreme weather expected during the World Cup. The organization's medical experts stated that the latest findings closely match earlier predictions made in 2023. They emphasized that football authorities must introduce stronger safety plans to protect players from heat stress and exhaustion during matches.
"The calculations to estimate the likelihood of 2026 FIFA World Cup games being played in high WBGT conditions are in line with FIFPRO's calculations published in 2023," said FIFPRO's medical director Vincent Gouttebarge. FIFPRO recommends cooling measures whenever the WBGT rises above 26 degrees Celsius. If the level exceeds 28 degrees Celsius, the organization believes matches should be delayed or postponed. Such conditions can feel similar to playing in temperatures near 38 degrees Celsius in dry weather or around 30 degrees Celsius in humid conditions.
FIFA's Preparedness and Measures
FIFA stated to Reuters that preparations are already underway to manage heat-related risks. The governing body said matches will include hydration breaks in both halves, while stadiums and fan areas will have cooling facilities. FIFA also plans to adjust work and rest schedules and improve medical support depending on weather conditions on match days.
Impact on Playing Style and Fan Safety
Medical expert Chris Mullington from Imperial College London said the biggest impact may not be medical emergencies but changes in the way football is played. He explained that players are likely to slow down naturally to manage their body temperature. The report also warned that fans attending outdoor fan parks and matches at non-air-conditioned stadiums in cities like Miami, Kansas City, New York City, and Philadelphia may face prolonged exposure to dangerous heat. Even the final at MetLife Stadium carries a higher risk of unsafe temperatures compared to the 1994 World Cup.
Climate experts now believe FIFA may need to consider scheduling future World Cups during cooler months to reduce health risks for everyone involved.
