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The World Cup will be held in hot weather
A panel of eminent scientists has warned FIFA that current heat protection measures during the 2026 World Cup are “inadequate” and could cause serious harm to players, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reports.
International experts in the fields of health, climate and sport said in an open letter that the International Federation’s directives are not in line with the available science and “cannot be justified”.
Scientists have called on FIFA to introduce stronger safeguards, including longer cooling-off periods, and introduce clearer protocols for postponing or postponing matches in extreme weather conditions.
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High temperatures are expected to be a problem at the tournament in the US, Canada and Mexico, with researchers warning that 14 of the 16 stadiums used during the World Cup could exceed dangerous levels.
In parts of the southern United States and northern Mexico, daytime highs typically range between 30 and 35°C, and can reach 40°C during extreme heat.
The 20 experts who signed the letter include prominent scientists from Great Britain, the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe.
Experts urge FIFA to implement urgent reforms, including:
– Postponement or postponement of games when the temperature on the WBGT index exceeds 28 degrees Celsius.
– Longer cooling rest periods of no less than 6 minutes.
– Improved cooling facilities for players.
– Regular updates of guidelines based on the latest scientific studies.
“3 minutes is not enough.”
“We are concerned that FIFA is acting recklessly with regard to player health and safety,” Andrew Sims, director of the New Weather Institute, which coordinated the open letter to FIFA, told BBC Sport.
For his part, University of Connecticut professor Douglas Casa, who signed the letter, believes that most of FIFA’s current guidelines are far from ideal;
He added: “We hope this open letter will persuade FIFA to update the temperature guidelines ahead of the World Cup.”
In contrast, FIFA said it was “committed to protecting the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff” and that climate-related risks are assessed during tournament planning.
