Scientists warn that a quarter of the matches in the upcoming 2026 North American World Cup could be played in extreme heat conditions, AFP reported on May 14.
The World Weather Attribution (WWA), a multinational group of climate researchers, stated in an open letter that players and fans at the 2026 World Cup will face significantly higher risks of extreme heat and humidity compared to the 1994 tournament held on the same continent.
WWA’s analysis estimates that 26 out of 104 matches in this North American World Cup will be played under conditions where the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index reaches at least 26°C (about 78.8°F). The group reports that the risk of extreme heat during this World Cup has nearly doubled compared to the 1994 U.S. World Cup.
The WBGT is an indicator used to prevent heat-related illnesses. The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) advises that when the WBGT index reaches 26°C (78.8°F), players face substantial risks, prompting recommendations for “cooling breaks” to allow hydration.
Five of these matches are expected to be played in conditions where the WBGT index exceeds 28°C (about 82.4°F) , a threshold at which FIFPRO recommends postponing games.
Of the 26 high-risk matches, 17 will be held in stadiums with indoor air conditioning systems in Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta. However, the remaining venues in cities such as Miami, Kansas City, New Jersey, and Philadelphia are outdoor facilities, leaving them vulnerable to extreme heat.
Professor Friederike Otto from Imperial College London told AFP that while players are at risk, fans gathering outdoors face even greater danger as they may not have access to the same level of medical attention as the athletes.
Professor Otto also cautioned that the final match, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, could potentially be played under conditions where the WBGT index reaches 28°C.
FIFA has implemented a real-time monitoring system that integrates the WBGT and heat index to prepare for extreme heat. The organization is ready to enact emergency response protocols, including delaying or postponing matches in the event of severe weather conditions, according to AFP.