Scientists and climate experts have warned FIFA about the danger of extreme heat during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling for stronger safety measures to protect players and fans.
According to a report by BBC Sport on Thursday, medical experts, climate researchers, and sports scientists signed an open letter urging FIFA to adopt stricter heat protection rules proposed by FIFPRO, the global football players’ union.
The experts said rising temperatures in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the three countries hosting the tournament, could expose players and spectators to serious health risks.
Andrew Simms, who coordinated the letter, said player safety should be treated as an urgent issue because overheating can quickly become dangerous.
“We’re worried that FIFA is playing recklessly with the health and safety of players,” Simms said.
The warning followed a new analysis by the World Weather Attribution group, which found that about one quarter of World Cup matches could be played in temperatures above 26°C Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), a major measure used to monitor heat stress.
Scientists also said around five matches could be played in temperatures above 28°C WBGT, conditions FIFPRO considers unsafe for professional football.
Experts added that the risk of extreme heat during the 2026 tournament has almost doubled compared to the 1994 World Cup, which was also held in North America.
Beyond heat concerns, scientists warned that thunderstorms and wildfire smoke could also disrupt matches during the competition.
In response, FIFA said it plans to use a “tiered heat mitigation model” during the tournament, with safety measures based on real-time weather conditions.
A FIFA spokesperson said weather monitoring systems would be used across host cities to track WBGT readings and heat levels during matches.
FIFA also explained that match schedules were planned to reduce exposure to extreme temperatures by avoiding the hottest periods of the day and using covered stadiums where possible.
The organisation added that it would continue working with medical experts and local authorities to ensure a safe tournament.
However, critics say climate change is making summer sporting events more dangerous and raising concerns about the future of major tournaments in extreme weather conditions.
