The 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, could set an unfortunate record as the most polluting sporting event to date. According to the New Weather Institute, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions will exceed 9 million tons, driven by the extensive logistics of the tournament.
This edition, which will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will be the largest so far, with 48 teams competing in 104 matches spread across different time zones. The expansion of the event exacerbates the concerns about its environmental impact, especially in terms of extreme heat.
With 16 host cities in three countries, the distances between venues, such as the 5,600 kilometers between Vancouver and Miami, increase CO2 emissions. Projections indicate that flights could increase their emissions by between 160% and 325% compared to previous World Cups.
The structure of the tournament poses a significant logistical and energy challenge, exacerbated by its duration and the number of participating teams. The increase in logistical and digital services will require high levels of energy consumption, especially in broadcasting and infrastructure maintenance.
The air transport of teams, staff, and fans will be the main contributor to the event’s carbon footprint. The enormous demand for technological and energy resources in the host cities will add to this pressure.
2026 World Cup
The tournament not only represents an environmental challenge but also a stage for the implementation of advanced technologies. FIFA will deploy artificial intelligence (AI) tools to enhance the experience of referees and security, while organizers will use AI in infrastructure management.
In addition to concerns about emissions, thermal stress in cities like Miami, Dallas, Houston, and Monterrey poses a significant threat. These conditions have reignited the discussion about scheduling sporting events during cooler months or at night.
This World Cup will not only be a showcase of technological innovation but also a reminder of the environmental contradictions inherent in mega-events.
The need to rethink the model of these competitions becomes increasingly evident in the face of climatic, technological, and economic challenges.
