Professional athletes from various sports disciplines have come together at the United Nations climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, to shed light on the growing threat that climate change poses to their sports, fans, and the environment. The impact of climate change on sports is becoming increasingly evident, with athletes facing extreme heat, heavy rains, and other adverse conditions that are disrupting their training and competitions.
Triathlete Pragnya Mohan highlighted the challenges she faces due to the scorching summers in her native India, forcing her to seek training alternatives in cooler regions like the United Kingdom. The 2021 U.S. Olympic trials in Eugene, Oregon, saw temperatures soaring to dangerous levels, causing distress among participants and spectators. New Zealand soccer player Katie Rood shared her experiences of training in heat chambers to prepare for the Tokyo Olympics, emphasizing the need for urgent action on climate change.
Climate change is not only affecting sports events through extreme heat but also through heavy rainfall, as seen in the Paris Olympics where triathlon events had to be delayed due to high bacteria levels in the Seine River caused by increased precipitation. Major soccer clubs, including La Liga's Real Betis, have joined forces in a climate action alliance to reduce emissions and raise awareness among fans.
While athletes play a crucial role in raising awareness about climate change, the responsibility also lies with governing bodies and sports organizations to take meaningful action. However, challenges persist, with some entities prioritizing financial interests over environmental concerns. FIFA's decision to hold the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, despite concerns about heat and human rights violations, has sparked criticism and calls for accountability.
As climate change makes sports more expensive and inaccessible in certain regions, athletes are facing increased challenges in training and competing. The widening disparities in sports opportunities due to climate-related factors are exacerbating socioeconomic inequalities and raising justice concerns. While some adaptations, such as changing competition locations and utilizing technology like stadium air-conditioning, are being implemented, they are not sufficient to address the underlying climate crisis.
Athletes like Tina Muir emphasize the long-term consequences of pushing themselves in extreme conditions, highlighting the need for sustainable practices in sports. The collective efforts of athletes, sports organizations, and fans are essential in mitigating the impact of climate change on sports and ensuring a sustainable future for athletes worldwide.
