Scientists have warned that nearly a quarter of the matches scheduled for the 2026 FIFA World Cup could take place under dangerously high temperatures, increasing risks for players, officials and millions of fans expected to attend the tournament across North America.
The alarming findings emerged from a new climate analysis conducted by the World Weather Attribution group ahead of the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup, which the United States, Canada and Mexico will jointly host next year. Researchers said climate change has significantly increased the probability of extreme heat conditions during the tournament.
According to the study, around 25 percent of the tournament’s 104 matches could experience Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) levels above 26 degrees Celsius, the threshold at which football’s global players’ union FIFPRO recommends cooling interventions and extended hydration measures. Scientists warned that nearly five matches could exceed the 28C WBGT danger mark, where postponements may become necessary to protect player health.
The WBGT index measures heat stress by combining temperature, humidity, sunlight and wind conditions. Experts said high humidity could make conditions even more dangerous because the human body struggles to cool itself effectively in such environments.
Several major host cities, including Miami, Kansas City, New York and Philadelphia, face elevated heat risks because many stadiums lack full air-conditioning systems. Scientists noted that only three of the 16 World Cup venues currently offer significant cooling infrastructure.
The report also raised concerns about the World Cup final, scheduled at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Researchers estimated the stadium now carries nearly double the heat risk compared to the 1994 FIFA World Cup held in the United States.
FIFPRO medical director Vincent Gouttebarge said the findings support urgent implementation of heat mitigation strategies to safeguard players and maintain performance levels during the tournament. The organisation has repeatedly urged FIFA to reconsider match scheduling during periods of extreme weather.
FIFA responded by saying it has already developed extensive heat-management protocols for the 2026 tournament. The governing body confirmed that cooling breaks, medical preparedness plans, shaded rest areas and hydration stations will remain central parts of tournament operations.
Climate experts also warned that fans could face even greater risks than players because many spectators may spend extended hours outdoors before and after matches. Organisers are now under pressure to provide additional shaded zones, misting stations and emergency medical support at stadiums and fan festivals.
Scientists believe rising global temperatures will increasingly challenge organisers of major sporting events. Professor Friederike Otto of Imperial College London said future tournaments may need to shift away from traditional summer schedules to reduce health risks linked to climate change.