International experts say current protocols risk serious harm to players as roughly 25% of matches face dangerous heat conditions across North American venues.
1:47 PM
A group of world-leading scientists has warned FIFA that its current heat safety measures for the men's 2026 World Cup are "inadequate" and could put players at risk of serious harm. In an open letter, international experts in health, climate and sports performance say the governing body's guidelines are out of step with current science and "impossible to justify."
The tournament, scheduled to begin June 11 in Mexico City and run across the United States, Canada and Mexico, is expected to face significant heat challenges. According to research by the World Weather Attribution group, approximately 26 of the 104 scheduled matches—roughly 25 percent—are likely to be played under dangerous conditions for player and fan health.
Scientists warn that temperatures at 14 of the 16 stadiums being used could exceed dangerous levels. Researchers identified a "real risk" of unsafe conditions, with matches in Miami most likely to be affected. The National Weather Service's seasonal temperature outlook for the US suggests every part of the country will experience temperatures above historical averages in June and July.
The World Weather Attribution study, published Thursday in a 52-page report, indicates that approximately five games are likely to be played when the host city's Wet Bulb Global Temperature exceeds 26 degrees Celsius. Some games will be played in over 26-degree heat conditions.
In response to criticism of its extreme-weather policies following disruptions at last summer's Club World Cup, FIFA has introduced mandatory three-minute "cooling breaks" for this tournament. However, the international research group's scientists claim these measures fall short of what is needed to protect participants.
The experts call on FIFA to introduce stronger protections, including longer cooling breaks and clearer protocols for delaying or postponing games in extreme conditions. They argue the current guidelines do not adequately address the risks of serious heat illness that players and fans may face during the competition.
Parts of the southern United States and northern Mexico are expected to experience particularly high temperatures during the tournament period. The combination of heat and humidity poses the primary concern for organizers and health officials monitoring the event.
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