1 in 4 World Cup Matches Could Be Played in Dangerous Temperatures
A study by World Weather Attribution warns that 25 percent of the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches could be played in temperatures exceeding safety limits. Researchers used the wet-bulb globe temperature index to assess heat stress risks for players and fans across host cities in the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Why it matters
The findings highlight the growing impact of climate change on major international sporting events and the necessity for new safety protocols.
Photograph: Maja Hitij/Getty Images Comment Loader Save Story Save this story Comment Loader Save Story Save this story Extreme heat will be one of the biggest challenges for players and fans during the 2026 FIFA World Cup . According to an analysis by the World Weather Attribution (WWA), around 25 percent of the 104 matches of the tournament could be played under temperatures that exceed the recommended thermal safety limits. The study points out that the probability of facing these conditions is almost double that recorded in the 1994 tournament held in the United States.
The report relies on scientific data and attribution studies to present a factual assessment of environmental risks.
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