How extreme weather and heat could affect players at World Cup 2026

Climate experts have warned that a significant portion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, potentially up to 25%, could be played under extremely hot and humid conditions, posing substantial risks to player performance and fan safety. The tournament, scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will see games spread across 16 cities, many of which are projected to experience temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the June and July period when the event is held. This forecast is based on climate modeling that analyzes projected temperature and humidity levels, indicating a heightened probability of "very hot" conditions, defined as a wet-bulb temperature of 24 degrees Celsius or higher. Such conditions can severely impair athletic performance, increase the risk of heatstroke, and necessitate more frequent breaks for players.

The implications of these extreme weather predictions extend beyond the athletes, impacting the experience of millions of fans expected to attend the matches. High temperatures and humidity can lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses among spectators, particularly those who are not adequately prepared or hydrated. Organizers will need to implement robust heat mitigation strategies, including increased access to water, shaded rest areas, and potentially adjusted game schedules or cooling measures during matches. The choice of host cities and their respective climates has become a critical factor in planning for the 2026 World Cup, highlighting the growing influence of climate change on major international sporting events.

This concern is not isolated to the 2026 World Cup. Previous major sporting events have already grappled with the effects of rising global temperatures. For instance, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, held in 2021 due to the pandemic, faced intense heatwaves that led to numerous athlete withdrawals and health concerns. The International Olympic Committee has since acknowledged the need to consider climate change in future host city selections. Similarly, other outdoor sporting events, such as marathons and cycling races, are increasingly adapting their schedules and providing enhanced support to participants to cope with extreme heat. The FIFA World Cup, with its global reach and immense scale, faces a particularly acute challenge in ensuring the well-being of all involved amidst a changing climate.