Football supporters attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico may be exposed to dangerous heat conditions, according to forecasters who have warned of potential health risks at open-air stadiums.
A report released last month by the World Weather Attribution research group estimated that 26 of the 104 matches scheduled for the tournament could take place under conditions where the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) exceeds 26°C.
WBGT is a heat stress index used to assess the impact of environmental conditions on the human body. It combines factors such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation to determine how safely people can perform physical activity outdoors.
Concerns over extreme heat are not new, following similar complaints during last year’s FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States, where spectators reported intense and uncomfortable temperatures. At the time, some stadiums also restricted fans from bringing water bottles into venues.
FIFA has stated that measures will be introduced to reduce heat impact during the tournament. These include the provision of misting stations, fans, hydration points, and cooling tents within stadium areas.
The governing body also noted that bottled water will be available for purchase inside venues at prices aligned with those of other major events hosted at the respective stadiums.
Heat Warning Raised Over 2026 World Cup as Fans Face Extreme Weather Risks
