WASHINGTON — A new climate analysis warned that extreme heat could affect matches, players, and spectators during the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with several host cities expected to experience hazardous playing conditions during the tournament.
The report, cited in the analysis, projected that rising temperatures could expose athletes, officials, workers, and fans to heat stress during the 104 scheduled matches. It identified cities including Dallas and Houston in Texas, as well as Miami, Atlanta, and Kansas City, as locations where “feels-like” temperatures could exceed 90°F (32°C).
The study, conducted by World Weather Attribution, estimated that about 26 matches could take place under conditions that exceed safety thresholds used by the global players’ union, the International Federation of Professional Footballers’ Associations (FIFPRO). It also projected that nine matches could occur in stadiums without cooling systems.
FIFPRO guidelines state that Wet Bulb Globe Temperature levels at or above 26°C (78.8°F) require cooling breaks, while levels at or above 28°C (82.4°F) are considered unsafe for play and may require postponement. The report said approximately five matches could reach or exceed that higher threshold.
FIFA currently mandates match-day mitigation measures when temperatures reach 32°C (89.6°F), a higher cutoff than FIFPRO’s recommendation. The organization has implemented hydration breaks during matches and announced additional measures, including misting stations, cooling tents, and hydration areas for fans.
FIFA has also created a Heat Illness Mitigation and Management Task Force to develop heat-risk alerts, medical protocols, and operational responses ahead of the tournament.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with matches scheduled during the Northern Hemisphere summer, a period that has previously raised concerns over extreme heat in international football tournaments.
