The 2026 FIFA World Cup could become one of the hottest tournaments in football history, with climate experts warning that rising temperatures may pose serious health risks for players officials and spectators across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
A recent analysis highlighted growing concerns over extreme heat during the tournament, particularly in several host cities where daytime temperatures have increased significantly over recent decades. The warning comes after multiple heat related incidents during recent football competitions held in North America.
One of the most notable incidents occurred during the 2025 Club World Cup semifinal at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey where Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández reportedly suffered heat exhaustion while playing in temperatures of around 35.5 degrees Celsius. The stadium, which is scheduled to host the 2026 World Cup final does not have a roof or air conditioning system.
Researchers say climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events across many World Cup host locations. New Jersey alone has experienced a temperature rise of approximately 2.2 degrees Celsius since 1900, with the number of days exceeding 32 degrees Celsius increasing substantially over recent decades.
The tournament schedule has also drawn criticism. More than half of the 104 matches are expected to be played during daylight hours, including many knockout stage fixtures. Analysts note that afternoon kick offs are largely designed to match prime time television audiences in Europe, where broadcasting revenues are highest.
Although FIFA has introduced mandatory hydration breaks during all World Cup matches, experts argue that additional measures may be necessary. Only four of the tournament’s 16 stadiums feature both roofs and air conditioning systems, leaving most venues exposed to outdoor heat conditions.
Concerns about extreme temperatures at major football tournaments are not new. During the 1986 World Cup in Mexico and the 1994 World Cup in the United States, players and coaches openly criticised match schedules that forced teams to compete in scorching midday temperatures. Several athletes reported exhaustion, while hundreds of spectators required medical attention for heat-related illnesses.
Climate researchers warn that today conditions are even more challenging because global temperatures have risen significantly since those tournaments. Recent studies show that cities such as Dallas, Los Angeles, Boston and New York are experiencing more days with temperatures above 32 degrees Celsius than in previous decades.
Sports journalists and analysts covering international football have also raised concerns about the effects of extreme heat on media personnel, volunteers and fans. Heat stress, dehydration and heatstroke risks increase significantly when large crowds gather outdoors for prolonged periods during hot weather.
Experts are calling for stronger heat management strategies, including reconsidering match timings, increasing shaded areas, expanding cooling infrastructure and improving emergency medical preparedness. They argue that as climate change continues to intensify heatwaves worldwide, major sporting events will need to adapt to protect both athletes and spectators.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup largest in the tournament history is expected to attract millions of fans from around the world. However, growing concerns over extreme heat have sparked a wider debate about how global sporting events can remain safe in an increasingly warming climate.