What's happened
A study warns that footballers face extreme heat stress at many 2026 World Cup stadiums, particularly in the US and Mexico. Experts urge FIFA to reconsider match scheduling and policies to protect athletes from rising temperatures linked to climate change.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, researchers warn that footballers face a 'very high risk of experiencing extreme heat stress' at many World Cup venues, particularly in Arlington and Houston. Marek Konefał, a co-author of the study, emphasizes the need to rethink the timing of sporting events as climate conditions worsen. Meanwhile, athletes like Sam Mattis and Katie Rood voiced their concerns at the UN climate summit, highlighting the broader implications of climate change on sports. They noted that extreme weather could threaten the viability of events like triathlons and lead to increased costs for athletes. The Independent points out that FIFA's current policies may not adequately address the risks posed by rising temperatures, calling for a more comprehensive approach to athlete safety. This sentiment is echoed by experts who argue that the governing body must take decisive action to protect players from the escalating impacts of climate change.
How we got here
As climate change intensifies, sporting events are increasingly affected by extreme weather. The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted in North America, raises concerns about athlete safety due to predicted high temperatures during matches.
Common question
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What climate risks do athletes face at the 2026 World Cup?
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, concerns about climate change and its impact on athlete safety are rising. With extreme heat predicted at many venues, particularly in the US and Mexico, it's crucial to understand the risks athletes may face and how governing bodies like FIFA are responding. Below are some common questions regarding these pressing issues.
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