Scientists Urge FIFA to Address Heat Risks for 2026 World Cup

Scientists have raised concerns about the risks of extreme heat during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. An open letter, coordinated by Andrew Simm, was signed by a group of medical experts and climate researchers, urging FIFA to implement stricter heat protection standards.

The letter warns that approximately one-quarter of World Cup matches could be played in temperatures exceeding 26°C wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT), with five matches potentially exceeding 28°C WBGT, conditions deemed unsafe by FIFPro, the global football players' union. The risk of extreme heat during the tournament is nearly double compared to the 1994 World Cup held in North America.

The letter also highlights potential complications from heatwaves, thunderstorms, and wildfire smoke. FIFA has stated that it will provide dedicated meteorological monitoring across host cities and will adjust safety measures in real-time based on weather conditions, but critics argue that climate change is making summer sports events increasingly dangerous.