Sávio Bortolini Pimentel, a former professional soccer player, recalls the intense heat during the 1994 FIFA World Cup final in Pasadena, California. Players in the upcoming 2026 World Cup may face even higher temperatures, according to a report from researchers at Imperial College London. The report indicates that five games could occur in unsafe heat conditions, compared to three in 1994, using a threshold of wet bulb globe temperatures of 28°C (83°F). FIFA currently considers postponing matches only at temperatures exceeding 32°C (90°F).
Chris Mullington, a consultant anesthetist at Imperial College, explained that humidity can significantly impact players' ability to cool down. An open letter from 60 current and former players urges FIFA to revise its heat guidelines. The letter highlights the physical effects of extreme heat on players, including fatigue and decreased performance.
Friederike Otto, a climate science professor at Imperial College, noted that the risk of high temperatures is a clear indication of climate change's impact on sporting events. The report predicts that nearly a quarter of World Cup games may be played in temperatures above 26°C (79°F), with about five matches expected to exceed 28°C (83°F).
Douglas Casa, CEO of the Korey Stringer Institute, emphasized the dangers of extreme heat for athletes, suggesting that FIFA should implement aggressive cooling strategies in stadiums and extend hydration breaks. The report also raises concerns for fans, who may face health risks from high temperatures. Casa advocates for free water-filling stations in stadiums to help mitigate dehydration risks.
The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was moved to winter due to heat concerns, and last summer's Club World Cup did not experience any postponements despite high temperatures. The final match of the 2026 World Cup is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with a predicted 12.5% chance of exceeding 26°C and a 3% chance of reaching 28°C.