FIFA’s Climate Blind Spot: Heat Concerns Grow Ahead Of 2026 World Cup

Allow me to state the obvious: climate change is real.

But with the 2026 FIFA World Cup now less than a month away, critics believe FIFA still is not fully confronting what that reality could mean for players and fans across North America.

Climate scientists have raised fresh concerns over extreme heat conditions expected during the tournament, warning that nearly one in four matches could be played in potentially dangerous environments.

And according to experts, that could become a major problem.

Why Experts Are Worried

The expanded World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Mexico and Canada, will feature 104 matches in 16 host cities.

An analysis conducted by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) network found that 26

of the 104 World Cup matches could take place in conditions exceeding 26°C Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) — a measurement that factors in humidity, sunlight, wind and heat stress on the human body.

In simple terms, WBGT reflects how effectively the body can cool itself during physical exertion. In humid conditions, sweating becomes less effective, increasing the risk of dehydration, exhaustion and heat-related illness.

For elite footballers constantly sprinting under direct sunlight, the concern is obvious. But experts insist the danger extends beyond the pitch.

FIFA’s Heat Protocols Under Scrutiny

FIFA has already introduced mandatory cooling breaks during each half of matches. However, player unions and climate experts argue the organisation’s thresholds remain outdated for modern climate realities.

FIFPRO, the global players’ union, recommends cooling breaks once WBGT hits 26°C and advises postponements at 28°C or above.

FIFA, however, only considers suspending matches when WBGT exceeds 32°C — and that gap has become a major talking point.

While 17 of the potentially high-risk matches will be played in air-conditioned stadiums, several venues still lack cooling infrastructure entirely.

Experts fear that could leave players, travelling supporters and outdoor fan-zone crowds exposed during peak summer heat.

(with agency inputs)