Scientists Warn FIFA Over 2026 World Cup Heat Safety Measures

A coalition of world-leading scientists has sent a strong message to FIFA, asserting that the current heat safety protocols for the upcoming 2026 men's World Cup are insufficient. They warn that these measures could expose players to significant health risks due to extreme temperatures expected in host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The open letter, signed by international experts in health, climate, and sports performance, argues that FIFA's existing guidelines do not align with contemporary scientific understanding and are "impossible to justify." The scientists are urging FIFA to implement more robust protections, including extended cooling breaks and clear procedures for delaying or postponing matches when conditions become extreme.

Concerns for Player Welfare

The 2026 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by three North American nations, is anticipated to face considerable heat challenges. Researchers project that temperatures at 14 of the 16 venues could reach dangerously high levels. Regions in the southern US and northern Mexico typically experience average daytime highs in the low to mid-30s Celsius, which can surge towards 40°C during heatwaves.

When factors such as humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation are considered, players in these host cities face a heightened risk of severe heat stress. The scientists emphasize that the combination of these environmental elements significantly amplifies the physiological strain on athletes.

Key facts

FIFA's Current Measures and Scientists' Demands

FIFA has stated its commitment to safeguarding the health of players, referees, fans, and staff, confirming that climate-related risks are part of its tournament planning. As part of its "commitment to player welfare," FIFA has introduced mandatory three-minute cooling breaks in each half of every match, irrespective of weather conditions. Climate-controlled benches for technical staff and substitutes will also be provided at all outdoor matches.

The governing body utilizes the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) – a widely recognized standard for assessing physical heat stress – which combines heat and humidity. A WBGT reading of approximately 28°C is generally considered a critical threshold for elite athletes. FIFA's emergency care manual indicates that if WBGT approaches or exceeds 32°C, match organizers should agree on necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.

However, the 20 experts, including academics from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe, believe these measures do not go far enough. They are calling for an urgent overhaul of FIFA's approach, recommending:

• Delaying or postponing matches when the WBGT exceeds 28°C.
• Extending cooling breaks to at least six minutes.
• Enhancing cooling facilities for players.
• Regularly updating guidelines based on the latest scientific research.

They also advocate for FIFA to adopt standards proposed by the global players' union, Fifpro. Andrew Simms, director of the New Weather Institute, who coordinated the letter, stressed the immediate and urgent nature of player safety, noting how quickly heat-related issues can escalate. Professor Douglas Casa of the University of Connecticut echoed these concerns, particularly highlighting the inadequacy of the three-minute hydration breaks.

Climate Change Impact and FIFA's Response

New analysis from the World Weather Attribution (WWA) underscores the heightened risk of extreme heat and humidity for players and fans at the 2026 tournament compared to the 1994 World Cup, which was also held on the same continent. The WWA found that approximately a quarter of matches are likely to be played above 26°C WBGT, with about five games potentially exceeding 28°C WBGT – a level Fifpro deems unsafe for play. The WWA attributes this increased risk to climate change, noting that the likelihood of such extreme conditions has nearly doubled since 1994.

FIFA has not directly commented on the letter or the scientists' specific claims. However, a spokesperson confirmed that the organization would employ a "tiered heat mitigation model" during the tournament, adapting measures to real-time conditions. This includes dedicated meteorological support, central and host-city WBGT and heat index monitoring to inform decision-making, and a schedule designed with climate in mind. This involves adjusting kick-off times, limiting matches during the hottest periods where possible, and prioritizing warmer fixtures for covered stadiums. FIFA also stated its commitment to minimizing travel and maximizing rest days based on location-specific heat risk assessments. The organization affirmed it would continue to monitor conditions in real-time and implement contingency measures as needed, working with host authorities and medical experts to ensure a "safe and resilient" tournament.

Fuente: BBC Sport Football RSS https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cy928q8engzo?atmedium=RSS&atcampaign=rss