The next FIFA World Cup, set to take place in 2026 across North America, may expose footballers to extreme heat stress at 10 of the 16 host stadiums, according to researchers.
With climate change intensifying global heatwaves, the study highlights the urgent need to rethink the timing and management of sports events.
Simulated data reveals that during matches, temperatures could feel as high as 49.5°C in some locations, with stadiums in Arlington and Houston, USA, and Monterrey, Mexico, posing the highest risk.
The research team warns that such conditions could lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, particularly during afternoon matches when temperatures peak.
FIFA’s current guidelines suggest cooling breaks if the “wet bulb” temperature exceeds 32°C. However, experts argue that this measure underestimates the impact of internal heat generated by players during intense activity.
“Heat produced by muscles during physical exertion significantly adds to the thermal load on athletes,” explained Katarzyna Lindner-Cendrowska, the study’s lead author.
Recommendations include using advanced metrics tailored to football, extending half-time breaks, and rescheduling matches to cooler periods.
Extreme heat at World Cup venues could threaten players, fans, and the future of football.The researchers emphasize the importance of integrating heat management strategies to safeguard players and fans alike, especially vulnerable groups such as children, older adults, and those with health conditions.
The situation also draws attention to the broader climate crisis and its implications for sports.
The 2026 tournament is sponsored by Saudi Aramco, a major fossil fuel producer, raising concerns about conflicting interests between climate goals and corporate sponsorships.
Experts suggest that cutting fossil fuel emissions and adopting sustainable practices are critical to minimizing such risks in future tournaments.
While air-conditioning was successfully deployed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, it may not fully address the issue.
As climate scientist Marek Konefal cautions, “It’s time to rethink the sports calendar in the face of a warming planet.”
Organizers are urged to act swiftly, not only to protect participants and fans but also to ensure football remains adaptable to the realities of a changing climate.