WASHINGTON — Climate change has significantly raised the risk of performance-impairing heat for nearly all matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a new analysis by Climate Central released this week.
The study found that human-caused warming has increased the likelihood of temperatures exceeding 82.4°F (28°C) — a threshold linked to reduced athletic performance — for 97 of the 104 scheduled matches. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, begins on June 11 with matches across 16 venues.
Researchers compared current conditions to a world without carbon pollution, determining that climate change has boosted the odds of such heat by an average of about 8 percentage points across affected games. Extreme heat can impair players' distance covered, sprinting ability and overall game speed while elevating health risks for athletes and fans.
“Climate change is increasing the risk of slower games and reduced player performance at nearly every 2026 World Cup match,” the report stated. Most venues lack full air conditioning, heightening concerns for afternoon kickoffs in cities such as Miami, Dallas and Monterrey.
Broader research, including studies on wet-bulb globe temperature, has indicated that conditions above certain thresholds can hinder the body's ability to cool itself. FIFA and local organizers have implemented measures including heat acclimatization protocols, hydration stations and potential schedule adjustments.
Host cities have reported varying levels of preparation. Some venues feature enhanced cooling technologies, while others rely on timing matches for cooler evening hours where possible. Medical teams at all sites are prepared to monitor for heat-related illnesses.
FIFA officials have emphasized player safety and said they are working with meteorological services for real-time monitoring. Critics, including climate scientists, have called for greater consideration of environmental factors in future tournament scheduling.
The findings come as the tournament opens amid heightened awareness of climate impacts on major sporting events. Similar concerns were raised for previous competitions held in warm conditions.
As of June 11, 2026, organizers continue to monitor weather forecasts for the opening matches in Mexico City and other venues. Additional mitigation strategies and updates on conditions are expected throughout the tournament.
