Extreme Heat Threatens 2026 FIFA World Cup Matches in North America
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in June and July across 16 cities in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, is expected to face significant challenges due to extreme heat. According to a report from Imperial College London, human-induced climate change has increased the likelihood of unsafe temperatures during the tournament. The report predicts that five matches could occur under conditions deemed unsafe by FIFPRO, the international players' union, which uses a wet bulb globe temperature threshold of 28°C (83°F) for postponements. FIFA, however, currently considers postponing matches only at 32°C (90°F). The final match, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, has a 12.5% chance of exceeding 26°C (79°F) and a 3% chance of reaching 28°C (83°F). Players and experts have raised concerns about the impact of heat on performance and safety, urging FIFA to update its guidelines. 
