Scientists warn FIFA over extreme heat risks ahead of 2026 world cup

Scientists and climate experts have warned that players and fans could face dangerous heat conditions during the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026, urging FIFA to strengthen safety measures before the tournament begins.

According to a report by BBC Sport, medical experts, climate researchers and sports scientists issued an open letter calling on FIFA to adopt stricter heat protection standards proposed by FIFPRO.

The experts warned that rising temperatures across the United States, Canada and Mexico could put athletes and supporters at serious health risk.

Experts raise alarm

Climate campaigner and policy analyst Andrew Simms, who coordinated the letter, said overheating during matches could quickly become life-threatening.

“Player safety is an immediate and urgent concern because things can go wrong very quickly when people overheat,” Simms said.

“We’re worried that FIFA is playing recklessly with the health and safety of players,” he added.

Dangerous heat conditions predicted

New analysis by the World Weather Attribution reportedly found that about one quarter of World Cup matches could be played in temperatures above 26°C Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), a key measurement used to assess heat stress.

Scientists also warned that at least five matches may exceed 28°C WBGT, conditions that FIFPRO considers unsafe for professional football.

The experts noted that the likelihood of extreme heat during the tournament has nearly doubled compared to the 1994 FIFA World Cup, which was also hosted in North America.

Beyond heatwaves, researchers cautioned that thunderstorms and wildfire smoke could also disrupt matches during the summer tournament.

The warning adds to growing global concerns about how climate change could affect major sporting events in the future.

FIFA responds

In response, FIFA said it plans to implement a “tiered heat mitigation model” during the tournament.

According to the organisation, safety measures will be adjusted based on real-time weather conditions and monitored through WBGT readings and heat indexes across host cities.

FIFA also stated that match schedules were designed to reduce exposure to extreme heat, with efforts made to avoid games during the hottest hours of the day and to use covered stadiums where possible.

The football governing body added that it would continue collaborating with medical experts and local authorities to ensure a “safe and resilient” tournament.

Critics, however, argue that worsening global temperatures are making summer sporting events increasingly risky, raising fresh questions about the long-term sustainability of hosting international tournaments during extreme weather conditions.