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The world’s leading team of scientists has warned that FIFA’s current heat safety measures for the 2026 World Cup are “inadequate” and could put players at risk of serious injury.
as if An open letter, ExternalInternational health, climate and sports performance experts say the governing body’s guidelines are inconsistent with current science and “unjustifiable”. They called on FIFA to introduce stronger safeguards, including longer cooling-off breaks and clear protocols for delaying or rescheduling games in worst-case scenarios.
Heat is expected to be an issue at the Winter Games in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with researchers warning that temperatures in 14 of the 16 stadiums in use could exceed dangerous levels.
In parts of the southern US and northern Mexico, average daily highs are usually in the low to 30 cm range and can reach 40 cm during the hot season.
Factoring in temperature, humidity, wind speed and intensity of sunlight, players in these World Cup host cities are likely to experience significant heat stress on the body.
FIFA said it was “committed to protecting the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff” and said climate-related concerns would be assessed as part of tournament planning.
