On May 15, the World Weather Attribution (WWA), a multinational climate research group, emphasized in a public letter and analysis that due to global warming, players and fans at the 2026 World Cup will face significantly harsher heat and humidity risks compared to the 1994 tournament in the United States.
The WWA utilized the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index, which considers temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and wind, to assess the risk of heat. Their analysis predicts that 26 of the 104 matches will be played under conditions exceeding a WBGT of 26 degrees Celsius.
According to guidelines from the International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO), a WBGT of 26 degrees mandates a "cooling break" for player safety. If the WBGT exceeds 28 degrees, it is deemed too dangerous to continue the match, and postponement or cancellation is recommended. The WWA anticipates that five matches during this World Cup will occur in conditions where FIFPRO would advise postponement due to WBGT levels above 28 degrees.
This represents a significant increase in risk compared to the 1994 World Cup, where only 21 matches faced similar heat risks. The WWA noted that the likelihood of extreme heat conditions has nearly doubled since then.
Infrastructure at the venues poses additional concerns. Of the 26 matches expected to exceed the heat threshold, 17 will be held in indoor stadiums equipped with air conditioning, located in cities like Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta. However, venues in Miami, Kansas City, Philadelphia, and New Jersey are outdoor facilities, leaving them exposed to hot and humid conditions.
The safety of soccer fans is also at risk. Climate scientist Friederike Otto from Imperial College London warned, "While players are at risk, spectators gathering outside are in even greater danger. They may not have immediate access to medical assistance like the players do, making them more vulnerable to extreme heat."
The final match, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, is also at risk of extreme heat. The WWA forecasts a 12.5% chance that the match environment will exceed a WBGT of 26 degrees and a 2.7% chance of exceeding 28 degrees on that day.
In response to growing concerns about heat, FIFA has initiated measures to address the issue. The organization has implemented a real-time weather data monitoring system that integrates WBGT and heat index readings. FIFA is prepared to activate emergency response protocols, including cooling breaks and match delays or postponements, in the event of extreme weather conditions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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