Image source, Getty Images
A leading group of global scientists has warned that FIFA’s current measures to protect players from heat at the 2026 World Cup are insufficient, potentially putting players at serious risk.
International health experts, in an open letter, criticized the regulatory body’s heat guidelines as scientifically unsubstantiated and lacking justification. They called for improved player safety protocols, longer cooling breaks, and clear criteria to postpone matches under extreme conditions.
The 2026 tournament, to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to face significant heat challenges. Researchers have warned that out of 16 stadiums, 14 could experience dangerously high temperatures.
In parts of South America and northern Mexico, daytime temperatures regularly reach up to 35 degrees Celsius, rising to 40 degrees during summer months.
High temperature, humidity, strong winds, and intense sunlight collectively increase the risk of severe heat and physical heat stress for players.
[Physical heat stress refers to the physical discomfort and strain caused by exposure to hot environments.]
FIFA has stated its commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff alike.
According to FIFA, climate-related risks have been thoroughly evaluated in the planning phase of the tournament.
FIFA’s Measures to Protect Against Heat
FIFA has implemented a policy that mandates a three-minute cooling break between any halves, regardless of weather, based on a commitment to players’ welfare.
All outdoor games will provide climate-controlled rooms for technical staff and substitute players.
FIFA specifically utilizes the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) measurement to assess physical heat stress on the body, factoring in temperature, humidity, and sunlight.
A WBGT reading above 28 degrees Celsius is considered a concern for heat stress risks to players.
According to FIFA’s Emergency Care Manual, when WBGT approaches or exceeds 32 degrees Celsius, organizers must take preventive measures to reduce potential heat-related health issues.
FIFA has also established temperature-related advisories and safety protocols for spectators.
Spectators will be notified about expected high temperatures and permitted to bring bottled water into stadiums.
Fan zones will be equipped with shaded areas, misting systems to cool the air, cooling buses, and water distribution points.
Scientists’ Demands
Twenty senior scientists from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe have sent a letter to FIFA with key requests.
They urge FIFA to revise its heat policies as follows:
- Suspend or postpone matches if WBGT exceeds 28 degrees Celsius
- Introduce cooling breaks lasting at least six minutes during each half
- Provide advanced and accessible cooling facilities for players
- Regularly update standards based on scientific evidence
They also call for implementing standards proposed by the global players’ union, FIFPRO.
Concerns Over Player Health
Andrew Sims, director of the New Weather Institute and co-author of the open letter, said, “Player safety is a complex issue, as severe heat can rapidly deteriorate health conditions.”
“It appears that FIFA is playing with the health and safety of its athletes.”
Professor Douglas Casa of the University of Connecticut, who also signed the letter, expressed concerns that many parts of FIFA’s current guidelines are insufficient.
“Water breaks in each half should be longer than three minutes. Ideally, each break should last at least five minutes, preferably six.”
“We hope that FIFA updates its heat guidelines following this open letter.”
Why Concern Over the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 World Cup faces risks from extreme weather events including high temperatures, lightning, and wildfires that could lead to polluted air across the US, Canada, and Mexico during summer.
World Weather Attribution (WWA) reports that players and fans are likely to experience greater heat and humidity at this tournament than during the 1994 World Cup.
Scientists warn that approximately one-quarter of matches could occur in WBGT conditions exceeding 26 degrees Celsius, with five matches expected to reach 28 degrees.
This WBGT corresponds to roughly 38 degrees Celsius in dry heat and 30 degrees in high humidity, conditions considered unsafe by the players’ association FIFPRO.
WWA also finds that climate change has nearly doubled the risk of extreme weather events compared to 1994.
Image source, Getty Images
FIFA’s Response
FIFA declined to directly respond to claims made in the scientists’ letter but reported that “layered heat mitigation models” will be employed during the tournament, with immediate actions based on real-time conditions.
According to a FIFA spokesperson, specialized weather support will be available in all host cities and venues, monitoring WBGT and heat index data to guide decision-making.
Match schedules have been structured to reduce travel time and limit exposure to heat risk by considering climatic conditions. Fewer matches will be held during peak heat periods and some venues will feature shaded stadiums.
FIFA has committed to real-time environmental monitoring and will implement alternative measures if necessary. Collaboration is ongoing with host country authorities and health experts to ensure a safe event.
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