Scientists Warn FIFA Over Heat Risks at 2026 World Cup

A group of leading international scientists has warned that current heat safety measures for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are not strong enough and could expose players to serious health risks.

In an open letter addressed to FIFA, experts in climate, health, and sports performance said the organisation’s current guidelines do not match modern scientific recommendations on extreme heat.

The scientists are now calling for stronger protections before the tournament begins next month, June 2026, in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Scientists Raise Alarm Over Extreme Heat

Experts expect heat to become a major challenge during the tournament, especially in parts of the southern United States and northern Mexico, where daytime temperatures can rise above 35°C and sometimes approach 40°C.

Researchers warned that when humidity, sunshine, and wind conditions are added to the high temperatures, players could face dangerous levels of heat stress.

According to the scientists, 14 out of the 16 stadiums selected for the World Cup could experience unsafe heat conditions during matches.

FIFA Measures Criticised by Experts as Inadequate

The scientists criticised FIFA’s current heat protocols, saying they are “impossible to justify” based on existing medical and climate research.

Currently, FIFA plans to introduce mandatory three-minute cooling breaks in each half of every match.

The organisation will also provide climate-controlled benches for substitutes and technical staff during outdoor games.

FIFA uses the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) system to measure heat stress. The system considers temperature, humidity, sunlight, and wind speed.

Medical experts say a WBGT reading of around 28°C already presents serious risks for elite athletes.

Under FIFA’s emergency care guidelines, organisers are advised to discuss precautions when WBGT levels approach or exceed 32°C.

However, scientists argue that the measures do not go far enough.

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Scientists Demand Stronger Safety Rules

The 20 experts who signed the letter want FIFA to urgently improve player safety measures before the tournament begins.

Among the recommendations are:

Delaying or postponing matches when WBGT levels exceed 28°C
Extending cooling breaks to at least six minutes
Improving cooling facilities for players
Updating heat guidelines regularly based on the latest scientific evidence
Adopting standards proposed by global players’ union FIFPRO

“Things Can Go Wrong Very Quickly”

Andrew Simms, director of the New Weather Institute and coordinator of the letter, warned that player safety should be treated as an urgent issue.

“Player safety is an immediate and urgent concern because things can go wrong very quickly when people overheat,” Simms told BBC Sport.

“We’re worried that FIFA is playing recklessly with the health and safety of players.”

Professor Douglas Casa from the University of Connecticut also said FIFA’s cooling breaks are too short.

“The hydration break in each half absolutely needs to be longer than three minutes – at least five minutes for each break and preferably six,” he said.

“We hope this open letter convinces FIFA to update its heat guidelines before the World Cup.”

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Climate Change Increasing Heat Risk

New analysis by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) group found that players and fans face a much higher risk of dangerous heat conditions compared to the 1994 World Cup, which was also hosted in North America.

Scientists estimate that nearly a quarter of matches could be played in conditions above 26°C WBGT.

They also warned that around five matches may exceed 28°C WBGT – a level considered unsafe for football matches by FIFPRO.

The WWA said climate change has nearly doubled the likelihood of extreme heat conditions since 1994.

Apart from heat, experts also warned about possible thunderstorms and poor air quality caused by wildfires during the tournament.

Tournament Organisers Defend Heat Safety Plans

FIFA declined to directly respond to the scientists’ criticism but said it remains committed to protecting players, officials, fans, and workers during the tournament.

The organisation said it will use a “tiered heat mitigation model,” meaning safety measures will change depending on weather conditions in each host city.

FIFA also confirmed there will be dedicated weather monitoring teams throughout the tournament.

According to the organisation, kick-off times have already been adjusted to reduce exposure to the hottest parts of the day, while some warmer matches have been scheduled in covered stadiums.

FIFA added that it will continue monitoring conditions in real time and apply emergency measures when necessary to ensure a “safe and resilient” World Cup.

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