FIFA World Cup 2026 Faces Extreme Heat Concerns

Kathmandu. This week, images of European players struggling to train due to the summer heat in America were made public. This has increased concern and debate about the intense heat in America during the World Cup. 

Although the sight of football players drenched in sweat and sometimes resting on the field after taking off their jerseys is not entirely new, it has attracted special attention this time.

Scientists have long warned that extreme heat can affect sports competitions. Last month, climate scientists said that about one in every four World Cup games could be played in extreme heat, affecting both players and spectators.

Indeed, the practice matches and training last week showed just that. Especially players from European teams, accustomed to playing in cold weather, were widely seen on social media pouring water on themselves to cool down in the sun. Norway's team even wore ice-filled collars around their necks during a friendly match against Morocco.

However, England captain Harry Kane dismissed concerns about the heat affecting players, stating that it would not be a significant factor in his team's World Cup preparations.

So, how much will the rising temperatures during the World Cup actually affect the players? What do experts say about the heat during the World Cup matches? According to experts, due to the rapid increase in global temperatures since the tournament began in 1930, the 2026 World Cup could be the hottest World Cup ever.

Senior meteorologist Everton Fox says, 'About half a dozen venues are at risk of extreme heat. Dallas, Houston, Miami, and venues in Mexico are likely to experience extreme heat.'

The average daytime temperature in these locations is estimated to be 28 degrees Celsius. However, stadiums in Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta have air-conditioning facilities.

According to the network of climate scientists 'World Weather Attribution', about 26 out of 104 games may be played at a wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) of at least 26 degrees Celsius. This index measures how effectively the body can cool itself. Of these, five games are estimated to be played at 28 degrees WBGT or higher.

Of those 26 games, 17 will be played in air-conditioned stadiums, which will somewhat reduce the risk for both players and spectators.

How does high temperature affect player performance?

According to Fox, increasing humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed increase stress on players running in direct sunlight.

'All these factors make it more difficult for the body to stay cool, as sweat cannot evaporate quickly,' says Fox.

According to physical trainer Ryan Abbasi, the body sweats to balance its internal temperature. However, excessive sweating due to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, muscle cramps, and fatigue.

Do players get used to such heat?

'Yes, most players know how to cope with such hot conditions because they have trained and competed in various weather conditions,' says Abbasi.

According to Abbasi, who has worked with British clubs Swansea, West Ham, and the Pakistan national team, teams have physical trainers and medical staff who work to acclimatize players to the environment and prepare them for competition.

His statement aligns with Harry Kane's remarks. After defeating New Zealand 1-0 in Tampa, Florida, when the temperature exceeded 30 degrees Celsius, Kane also said the team was ready.

Does heat benefit players from hot countries?

Players from countries that regularly train in hot climates may find it somewhat easier to acclimatize to the high temperatures in America. However, according to Abbasi, 'Teams that prepare well and perform accordingly can minimize this problem.'

He added, 'Heat can also be used positively. Heat is an important factor in developing excellent players. Training in the heat is also a way to improve athletic performance.'

According to him, such practices develop the necessary adaptability in the body, which helps in performing even better in cold weather later.

Could the World Cup have been held at a different time of year?

According to Fox, international football tournaments are traditionally held during the break in European domestic leagues, and the 2026 World Cup is also happening at that time. 

He said, 'Looking at it, the weather in America is most favorable in spring and autumn. However, spring is the season of thunderstorms, and there is a risk of storms from the end of summer to autumn. Besides, there are local sports competitions there, which local spectators are more interested in.'

What measures has FIFA taken for players and spectators? 

FIFA has stated that it has prepared a plan for heat-related risks. This includes a three-minute break for hydration in each half, air-conditioning infrastructure to cool players and spectators, and medical preparations that can be expanded according to the weather.

Fox said, 'To get the full benefit, the hydration breaks might need to be longer, but there is a risk that the game would become four quarters instead of two halves.' He also argued that FIFA could have limited the games mainly to the northern regions of America and Canada. 

FIFA has also changed the start times of some games so that they can start at different times of the day, rather than during the hottest part.