A new study has raised serious concerns about the impact of extreme heat on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, warning that nearly 90 percent of the tournament’s stadiums could face dangerous temperatures. Researchers found that 14 of the 16 host venues across the United States, Canada, and Mexico are at risk of exceeding critical heat stress levels, potentially affecting players, officials, and spectators.
The research, conducted by Brunel University London, Queen’s University Belfast, and other institutions, analyzed 20 years of weather data and found that heat stress levels could surpass the 28°C threshold set by governing bodies as unsafe for play. If the summer of 2026 is hotter than average, as climate trends suggest, at least nine stadiums could see these extreme conditions for half the tournament, while four could experience temperatures as high as 32°C.
Some of the highest-risk locations include Miami, Monterrey, Philadelphia, Kansas City, Boston, and New York, where stadiums lack air-conditioning, leaving players exposed to extreme conditions.
Dr. Oliver Gibson, an expert in heat stress and performance physiology at Brunel University, emphasized the urgent need for FIFA to implement protective measures. He warned that teams will face conditions beyond recognized safety thresholds, particularly during afternoon kick-offs.
“Heat disrupts body temperature regulation, reducing both physical and cognitive function,” Gibson said. “Teams will need to implement significant heat alleviation strategies to counteract the negative impacts of heat stress on their players.”
He urged FIFA to adjust match schedules, particularly in the hottest locations, and to introduce cooling breaks to safeguard athletes. The frequency and intensity of heat waves are increasing, he added, meaning that climate change will have an even greater impact on sports in the coming years.
With just over a year to go before the World Cup kicks off, FIFA faces mounting pressure to address the risks posed by rising temperatures. Experts stress that without proactive scheduling changes and heat mitigation measures, the biggest tournament in global football could become a battle against the elements as much as against rival teams.