Scientists Warn FIFA 2026 World Cup Heat Measures Inadequate for Player Safety

A group of leading scientists has warned FIFA that its heat safety measures for the men's 2026 World Cup are inadequate and could expose players to serious harm.

In an open letter, international experts in health, climate and sports performance state that the governing body's guidelines do not align with current science and are impossible to justify. They urge FIFA to adopt stronger protections, such as longer cooling breaks and explicit protocols for delaying or postponing games in extreme heat.

Researchers predict heat will pose problems at the tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Temperatures at 14 of the 16 host stadiums could surpass dangerous thresholds.

Southern U.S. and northern Mexico areas often see daytime highs in the low to mid-30s Celsius, climbing toward 40C in heat waves. Factors like humidity, wind and sun intensity raise the risk of severe heat stress for players in these host cities.

FIFA maintains it is committed to protecting the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff. The organization assesses climate risks during tournament planning.

To support player welfare, FIFA mandates three-minute cooling breaks in each half of every match, regardless of conditions. All outdoor matches will feature climate-controlled benches for technical staff and substitutes.

FIFA employs the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), the standard measure of physical heat stress that accounts for heat and humidity. A WBGT near 28C signals significant heat stress risks for elite athletes.

FIFA's emergency care manual directs organizers to decide on precautions against heat illness if WBGT nears, reaches or exceeds 32C.

The organization has fan measures ready for high-temperature forecasts, including permission to carry factory-sealed water bottles. Venues will provide extra cooling through shaded areas, misting systems, cooling buses and more water stations.

Andrew Simms, director of the New Weather Institute and letter coordinator, told BBC Sport player safety is an urgent issue. "Things can go wrong very quickly when people overheat. We're worried that FIFA is playing recklessly with the health and safety of players."

Professor Douglas Casa of the University of Connecticut, another signatory, criticized much of FIFA's guidance. "The hydration break in each half absolutely needs to be longer than three minutes—at least five minutes for each break and preferably six. We hope this open letter convinces FIFA to update its heat guidelines before the World Cup."