The 2026 FIFA World Cup may deliver football on an unprecedented scale, but scientists and players’ representatives are warning that soaring temperatures across North America could turn parts of the tournament into a dangerous test of endurance.
An analysis by climate research group World Weather Attribution found that nearly a quarter of the 104 matches scheduled across the United States, Mexico and Canada are likely to be played in heat conditions exceeding safety thresholds recommended by global players’ union FIFPRO.
