Extreme heat, humidity may impact players at 2026 FIFA World Cup: Analysis

Extreme heat and humidity may impact players at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Around 25% of matches are likely to be played in conditions of 26°C Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) or higher, raising concerns over player safety. The global players' union FIFPRO considers WBGT levels of 28°C or above, equivalent to 38°C in dry heat or 30°C in high humidity, as unsafe for play. This risk has nearly doubled since the 1994 FIFA World Cup due to climate change.