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Concerns about July’s high temperatures have been circulating 2026 World Cup for months. Now, it’s getting real as the competition collides with one of the hottest weeks of the year.
As a powerful “heat dome” settles over large parts of the United States and Canada, bringing furnace-like conditions and temperatures expected to exceed 43 degrees Celsius (110 degrees Fahrenheit) in several cities, forecasters are warning of potential heat safety issues for some of this week’s knockout games.
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Which World Cup matches will be affected?
Toronto health officials have advised fans heading to Toronto Stadium Portugal Round of 32 match against Croatia Thursday to stay hydrated and limit alcohol consumption after Environment Canada issued a heat warning.
The city’s medical doctor, Michelle Murti, said the temperature felt like 40C (104F) because of the humidity.
Friday’s match between Colombia and Ghana in Kansas City will be played under a severe heat warning, with temperatures “feeling like” up to 43C (110F). Miami, where Argentina face Cape Verde on Friday, is also expected to be at risk of extreme heat this weekend.
Saturday’s game between Paraguay and France in Philadelphia could face similar conditions, with temperatures forecast to reach 39C (102F) and a heat index of 43C (110F). FIFA has already shortened the opening hours of its Fan Festival in the city due to the heat.
Which stadiums are most affected by the heat?
Not all stadiums are created equal.
Stadiums in Atlanta, Dallas and Houston have closed roofs and air conditioning, protecting players and fans inside.
But in Toronto, where the stadium was expanded for the World Cup with less roof cover, about 43,000 fans will be basked in the sun during Thursday’s match between Portugal and Croatia.
The same is true of Philadelphia and Kansas City, with capacities of about 68,000 and 69,000 respectively. Spectators will rely on almost any shade, rain shelter and cooler provided by the organizers, not just any weather control.
Why are fans being warned about the trip to the stadium?
Even if the game is indoors, walking to the stadium can bring its own dangers.
In Dallas, meteorologists are warning that while the air temperature will be around 32C (90F), the track outside the stadium could reach 50C (122F). This means fans traveling from car parks, train stations and viewing areas may be hotter than predicted.
“Concrete can absorb that heat,” National Weather Service meteorologist Jennifer Dunn said. “This can absorb and reflect, and it can raise the temperature significantly in the area.”
How will the players be affected?
When the body is overheated during intense exercise, the risks can be great, even for elite athletes. Heatstroke can cause dehydration, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness and extreme fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause heat stroke, a medical condition and the third leading cause of death in runners.
The heat can also change the game. Players often run a little faster, hide on the ground and save energy, changing the speed and intensity of the match.
What is FIFA doing to protect players?
Every game now includes a three-minute break between each half, regardless of the weather or whether the game is played indoors.
The breaks have become controversialwith many fans, coaches and players arguing that it interferes with the flow of the game and is an opportunity to make money for FIFA, giving the broadcasters more time to show commercials. But FIFA President Gianni Infantino said to be rejected that criticism, saying that “the main reason is the heat and that the team does not benefit “there is nothing” on the breaks.
In addition to hydration breaks, groups can make up to five; there are at least three days off between matches; and staff and substitutes in outdoor stadiums have access to climate-controlled benches.
FIFA said in April that the system was designed with temperature in mind.
“Outside matches during the hottest part of the day are limited, kick-off times are changed in some markets and matches are expected to be played in hot windows placed before covered stadiums where possible,” FIFA said.
This comes after last year’s Club World Cup in the United States, where the world’s football federation, FIFPRO, warned that the extreme heat should be a “wake-up” for football.
How can fans be safe in the heat?
Health experts recommend drinking water before you feel thirsty, resting in the shade or cool air if possible, limiting alcohol and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
Medical teams will also be stationed at the FIFA Fan Festival and around the stadiums to respond to heat-related illnesses. Some host cities have also added access to shade, coolers and free water for fans and staff.
Experts say it’s also important to know the warning signs. Dizziness, confusion, extreme fatigue or lack of sweating can indicate serious illness. If symptoms worsen, medical attention should be sought immediately.
