Nearly one in five World Cup matches reached heat levels players’ union warns against
Summary
Nearly one in five World Cup matches in 2026 were played in heat and humidity levels that the football players’ union says should lead to delays or postponements for player safety. The rising extreme heat during the tournament highlights challenges from climate change for sports events, prompting precautions like hydration breaks and climate monitoring.Key Facts
- The 2026 World Cup had 104 matches, with 20 played at or above wet bulb globe temperatures (WBGT) of 28°C (82°F), a heat level that players’ unions say is dangerous.
- WBGT measures heat stress by combining temperature, humidity, sunlight, and wind factors for safety assessment.
- Fifpro, the football players’ union, recommends delaying or postponing matches if heat reaches these high levels to protect players.
- Another 23 matches were held in hot cities but in air-conditioned stadiums to reduce heat risk.
- Organizers used meteorologists and coordinated with city officials to prepare for extreme weather during the World Cup.
- Players received hydration breaks and access to water, ice, and shade during games to reduce heat effects.
- Experts warn that climate change will make heat management a bigger issue for future sports events.
- The U.S. faced a heatwave during the World Cup, with warnings about wildfire smoke affecting air quality in venues like New York City.
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