News Focus
- Two opening round fixtures recorded wet-bulb temperatures above 28°C
- FIFPro previously stated such heat levels should trigger match delays
- Six venues experienced extreme heat during the first round of games
- FIFA has introduced cooling breaks and hydration protocols
- Experts warn fans and stadium workers face serious health risks
Two opening round matches at the FIFA World Cup took place in dangerous heat that exceeds safety guidelines set by the global players’ union. New analysis shows that wet-bulb temperatures reached 28 degrees Celsius or higher during these fixtures.
The matches between Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in Miami, and Sweden against Tunisia in Monterrey, were both evening kick-offs. However, they were staged in stadiums without air conditioning. Wet-bulb temperature measures heat stress by combining air temperature, humidity and cloud cover. When this level hits 28°C, the body cannot cool itself properly through sweating.
FIFPro, the world players’ union, has stated previously that matches should be delayed or postponed at this heat threshold. The union declined to comment on the new findings.
Four other first-round games were also held in cities where outside temperatures passed the 28°C mark. These venues had air conditioning that cooled the stadium interiors. For example, England’s clash against Croatia in Dallas saw outside wet-bulb temperatures near 35°C, but inside the stadium the reading dropped to 22°C.
Germany versus Curacao and Portugal against DR Congo in Houston, plus the Netherlands against Japan in Dallas, also faced extreme heat. Houston’s stadium has air conditioning.
FIFA rules state that cooling breaks must happen when temperatures reach 32°C. However, officials have used these breaks at lower temperatures during this tournament. FIFA has placed meteorologists at venues and created a tiered plan to manage extreme weather.
Health experts warn that fans and stadium workers face serious risks. Many supporters have suffered in seating areas with no shade. Workers who move heavy equipment must work long hours in these conditions. Before the tournament started, scientists wrote an open letter to FIFA asking for stronger heat protection.
The 2026 World Cup takes place across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Experts predict it will be the hottest tournament in the competition’s history. The event is expected to produce 7.8 million tonnes of greenhouse gases. This is double the carbon footprint of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.