Scientists warn Fifa that 2026 World Cup heat measures risk player safety
A group of leading international scientists has warned Fifa that its current heat safety guidelines for the 2026 World Cup are inadequate and could put players at serious risk.
An open letter from 20 experts in health, climate, and sports performance has heavily criticised the global governing body’s existing protocols.
The specialists describe the current preventative measures as being entirely out of step with modern science and impossible to justify.
Temperatures at next summer’s tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico are expected to become a major issue for competing nations.
Extreme weather threats
Researchers caution that 14 of the 16 host stadiums could experience conditions that exceed dangerous thermal levels.
Average daytime highs in the southern US and northern Mexico frequently sit in the mid-30Cs and can easily approach 40C during hotter spells.
When factoring in humidity, wind speeds, and solar radiation, elite athletes operating in these specific host cities face extreme levels of physical stress.
As part of a broader commitment to player welfare, tournament organisers have already introduced mandatory three-minute cooling breaks in each half of every match.
Current guidelines fall short
Climate-controlled benches will also be provided for technical staff and substitutes at all outdoor fixtures.
Football’s ultimate authority currently relies on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), which evaluates physical heat stress by combining temperature and humidity.
A WBGT reading of around 28C is widely recognised within the scientific community as the threshold where heat stress becomes a significant concern.
However, the existing emergency care manual dictates that match organisers only need to agree on necessary precautions when the WBGT reading hits 32C.
Expert demands for change
The coalition of academics, drawn from institutions across the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe, is demanding an urgent overhaul of these established procedures.
Their open letter outlines several critical enhancements designed to mitigate the severe environmental risks.
These requested changes include:
- Delaying or postponing matches when the WBGT exceeds 28C.
- Extending mandatory cooling breaks to a minimum of six minutes.
- Providing substantially improved cooling facilities for players.
- Implementing regular updates to safety guidelines based on the latest scientific research.
In response, a spokesperson for the organisation insisted they remain committed to protecting the health and safety of everyone involved in the event.
Fans attending matches will be allowed to bring factory-sealed water bottles into venues during periods of elevated temperatures, while stadiums will additionally activate cooling infrastructure such as misting systems and shaded areas.