This article summarizes an open letter from 20 international scientists who warn that FIFA’s heat-safety measures for the 2026 men’s World Cup are not enough to shield players from dangerous levels of heat. It outlines the specific changes experts say are needed as climate-impacted conditions loom across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
What the science says about heat risks at World Cup 2026
Heat exposure is not a single value; it is the combination of temperature, humidity, wind, and solar radiation that drives danger for athletes. The researchers warn that current guidelines may underestimate risk in many host cities.
This could potentially expose players to hazardous conditions during key matches. Climate analytics project that up to 14 of 16 stadiums could face temperatures that push heat stress into dangerous ranges.
They emphasize that the risk has grown alongside climate change since previous tournaments. Evidence shows an increase in extreme-heat events and a higher probability that competition days reach harmful heat levels.
According to World Weather Attribution studies cited by the scientists, roughly a quarter of matches could see a WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) above 26°C. About five games might exceed 28°C WBGT—thresholds many experts associate with elevated risk of heat illness and impaired performance.
The letter situates these numbers within a changing climate. What was once rare is becoming more common during major sporting events.
FIFA’s current heat policy and protections
FIFA has implemented a tiered approach to heat mitigation, including practical measures on match days. Key elements cited by the federation include:
- three-minute cooling breaks in each half for every match
- climate-controlled benches for technical staff and substitutes
- use of the WBGT measure to guide precautions
- allowance of factory-sealed water bottles and additional spectator cooling measures
FIFA also states that it will monitor real-time climate data and adjust kick-off times to reduce heat exposure. Scheduling considerations aim to limit travel and maximize rest days for teams.
The policy relies on a tiered model that integrates ongoing meteorological support and heat indices to guide decisions during tournament play.
The scientists’ concrete demands
The scientists outline specific changes they say would bring heat protections in line with current science and the scale of risk anticipated for 2026. Their recommendations include:
- delaying or postponing matches when WBGT is above 28°C
- extending cooling breaks to at least six minutes total per match
- improving player cooling infrastructure beyond the bench, including more active cooling zones and easier access to shade and ice
- regularly updating guidance to reflect the latest research and climate projections
- adopting standards proposed by Fifpro, the players’ union, to harmonize protections across leagues and tournaments
The letter stresses that the risk environment has evolved significantly since the 1994 World Cup, when baseline protections were designed. It calls for a scientifically grounded, dynamic framework that can respond to real-time conditions.
How FIFA responds and what it could mean for players
FIFA says it will apply a tiered heat-mitigation model using real-time WBGT and heat-index monitoring, with meteorological support to inform decisions. The plan includes adjustments to kick-off times and scheduling intended to limit travel and preserve rest.
It also includes a structured approach to protect players during high-heat scenarios. Adopting a more aggressive heat-management framework could mean:
- clear thresholds for delaying games beyond the 28°C WBGT line
- longer cooling periods that reduce thermal strain during critical match moments
- more proactive cooling and hydration strategies for players and support staff
The 2026 World Cup thus becomes a high-profile test case for how top federations translate climate science into on-the-ground protections for athletes and the people who follow the game.
Why this matters beyond kick-off times
With climate change accelerating, the potential for dangerous heat at major tournaments is not a hypothetical—it is a practical risk that can affect performance, health, and even the timing of matches.
The scientists’ call for stronger safeguards reflects a growing consensus that heat management must be proactive, transparent, and adaptable.
Combining real-time climate data with research-led standards is essential.
For players, coaches, broadcasters, and fans, the outcome will influence not just comfort and safety but the integrity of competition itself in a world where extreme heat is becoming the norm.
Here is the source article for this story: Fifa World Cup 2026: Leading scientists highlight extreme weather fears