Scientific warning to FIFA: Matches face extreme heat danger

According to an analysis by scientists, approximately one-quarter of the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches could be played in dangerous heat conditions. Miami and Kansas City, in particular, have been identified as high-risk cities.

As the excitement for the World Cup builds, a serious "heat" warning regarding the organization has come from the scientific community. Recent analyses conducted by World Weather Attribution indicate that the massive tournament, which will be held in three countries with 48 teams for the first time in 2026, could be risky for both athletes and fans due to extreme heat.

Here are the key details regarding the climate danger awaiting the 2026 FIFA World Cup:

'Climate has changed radically since 1994'

The analyses emphasize that climate conditions have changed radically due to human activities since the 1994 tournament, the last World Cup held in North America. It is stated that due to the impact of global warming, the risk of extreme heat and high humidity in this year's tournament is much higher compared to the past.

'One-quarter of matches at the "critical threshold"'

According to the research, approximately 25% of the 104 matches to be played throughout the tournament could exceed the 26-degree Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) limit, which is considered critical for player safety.

-What is WBGT? An index that measures how well the body can cool itself through sweating, also taking humidity and wind into account.

-Critical Threshold: At the 26-degree WBGT level, FIFPRO (World Players' Union) recommends that cooling measures such as "water breaks" be mandatory during matches.

'Risk of "cancellation/postponement" for 5 matches'

The analysis predicts that the WBGT value for approximately 5 matches could exceed 28 degrees (equivalent to approximately 38 degrees in dry heat). According to FIFPRO rules, this level is not considered safe for play, and it is recommended that matches be postponed.

'Most risky cities: Miami and Kansas City'

Only 3 of the 16 stadiums that will host the tournament have advanced cooling systems. The cities with the highest heat risk are listed as follows:

-Miami and Kansas City: The highest-risk regions.

-New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia: Other locations where there is no air conditioning system but the heat risk is high.

-Final Match: While the probability of the final match to be played in New York/New Jersey exceeding the 26-degree limit is calculated as 1 in 8, the possibility of reaching the dangerous 28-degree limit is also on the table.

'Call from experts to FIFA'

Scientists and player unions state that this situation should be a "warning flare" for the organizers.

-Dr. Joyce Kimutai (Imperial College London): Argues that shifting match times to the cooler parts of the day could be a solution, but the risk would not be completely eliminated.

-Prof. Friederike Otto: Emphasizes that the fact that the world's largest sporting event is facing a heat risk "at a level that could lead to cancellation" is the most concrete proof of how severely climate change is affecting every aspect of life.

In light of this data, it is a matter of curiosity how FIFA will make adjustments to the tournament schedule and player health protocols.

News Source: 12punto