Soccer Players Face ‘Very High Risk’ of Extreme Heat Stress During World Cup 2026

Soccer Players Face ‘Very High Risk’ of Extreme Heat Stress During World Cup 2026

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to take place in North America, scientists are raising alarms about extreme heat stress conditions expected during matches. Research indicates that players could face dangerous heat levels, with simulated conditions in some stadiums exceeding a staggering 50°C (122°F) due to the combination of external heat and physical exertion.

The study highlights concerns with FIFA’s current wet bulb temperature guidelines, which some scientists argue underestimate the real strain on athletes. The call for a football-specific heat stress policy, accounting for sweat, clothing, and intense physical activity, underscores the urgency for better heat safety measures. Adjustments such as extended half-time breaks, match rescheduling, and enhanced cooling protocols have been recommended to protect players and fans alike.

Extreme heat isn’t just a problem for professional athletes - it’s a reality for anyone engaging in physical activity during high temperatures. Monitoring tools like wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) devices play a critical role in identifying unsafe conditions and guiding heat safety practices. To learn more, click here.