The impact of climate change on the World Cup in the United States poses serious challenges for the 2026 edition. A study by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) group suggests that several matches could take place in conditions of heat and humidity that threaten health.
Since the last World Cup in the United States in 1994, global warming has significantly increased the risk of dangerous temperatures. Scientists highlight how climate change affects even large-scale sporting events.
Both players and fans could face extreme thermal conditions at various tournament venues. The need for global sport to adapt to an increasingly adverse climate is emphasized.
An international analysis suggests that the 2026 World Cup could take place under extreme heat that compromises the physical integrity of footballers, exceeding known safety thresholds.
Compared to 1994, the chances of experiencing extreme temperatures have increased significantly. The advance of global warming urges sports organizations to seek effective ways to protect participants.
The study evaluated the 104 matches scheduled for the 2026 World Cup, using the WBGT index that considers temperature and humidity to measure the thermal stress suffered by human bodies, aggravated by climate change.
Threat to the 2026 World Cup
This index is fundamental to understanding the danger of extreme heat, and scientists warn that around 25% of the matches could exceed the safety limits proposed by FIFPRO.
This scenario requires the implementation of cooling measures and health protocols during the matches. High humidity worsens the body’s ability to cool down, increasing the risk of heat stroke.
The problem not only affects players but also thousands of fans. Predictions indicate a more extreme scenario than thirty years ago.
The study on climate change in the World Cup reveals that several matches could be held under critical conditions, with at least five matches at unsafe thermal levels for the sport.
It is warned that conditions could equate to temperatures of up to 38 degrees of dry heat. In humid conditions, the physical impact could be even greater.
FIFPRO considers these extreme heat situations a significant risk to health, with possible episodes of exhaustion and dehydration.
The World Cup could face matches under “cancellation level” conditions, according to scientists. This requires reviewing climate safety protocols for sporting events.
The report highlights that since the 1994 World Cup, the risk of extreme heat has doubled. Joyce Kimutai, a scientist, recalls that much of the global warming has occurred in recent decades.
This exposes the acceleration of climate change and its direct effects on international sport. Competitions must adapt to more aggressive climatic phenomena.
The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be one of the first major tournaments affected by the climate emergency. There is an urgent need to act against global warming.
Many venues lack adequate cooling systems. Only three stadiums have advanced air conditioning. However, several cities with high temperatures and humidity, such as Miami and New York, pose a significant risk.
The adaptation of infrastructures becomes essential in the face of global warming. FIFA might be forced to modify schedules and reinforce health protocols.
The study on climate change in the World Cup highlights a growing global problem. Heatwaves are more frequent and intense in many regions.
This directly affects outdoor sporting events. Friederike Otto, a professor, warns that no social sphere is free from the climate impact.
Global warming threatens the viability of summer events in various parts of the world. International sports calendars will need to evolve gradually.
The lack of air-conditioned stadiums in key cities like Miami and Kansas City is worrying. These areas present suffocating humidity that could force schedule changes due to climate change.
The 2026 World Cup will mark a before and after in event planning, demanding urgent measures to face the heat. This will be a result of climate change in the World Cup in the United States.
