Over one-third of the 2026 World Cup matches are at high risk for dangerously hot and humid conditions, posing a significant threat to the health and safety of players, officials, and spectators. An analysis of temperature data for each host city reveals that 39 out of 104 games are at high risk, with dozens more at moderate risk. The high-risk events include high-profile matches such as the World Cup final and the game that determines the third-place team.
The World Cup kicks off next week at 16 stadiums across North America, with millions of fans, players, and workers potentially exposed to harmful heat. Climate scientist Donal Mullan warns that “players can overheat, and match officials as well… They can also overheat and collapse.” This has happened to people in the past, emphasizing the need for adequate precautions.
Heat Risk at the World Cup
The analysis looked at two decades of temperature data for each host city, as well as the scheduled start time for each match, and checked those temperatures against heat hazard guidelines from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the American College of Sports Medicine. Cities such as Miami, Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta rank near the top in temperature for their games, with averages as high as 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
FIFA, the governing body for international soccer, has taken measures to mitigate the heat risk, including scheduling games for cooler afternoon and evening hours, adding extra water breaks, and installing air conditioning on the sidelines. However, the organization did not respond to questions about why some matches were scheduled for high-risk locations and times.
Implications and Precautions
The heat risk is not limited to players and officials, as spectators and workers at stadiums are also vulnerable. FIFA has announced that spectators will be permitted to bring one factory-sealed water bottle, and venues will activate additional cooling capacity, including shaded areas, misting systems, and expanded water distribution. However, the organization did not provide details on how hot it would need to be to trigger these protections.
The World Cup heat risk is a significant concern, with 67 out of 104 games being held at locations and times that come with potential danger for heat illnesses. As climate scientist Jennifer Vanos notes, “all hot weather is dangerous, but hot, humid weather tends to be more dangerous.” The World Cup heat risk is a reminder of the need for adequate precautions and planning to ensure the health and safety of all individuals involved.
