Climate Risks Threaten 2026 World Cup

A new report warns extreme heat and weather could make the 2026 World Cup North America’s last without urgent adaptation.
The Pitches in Peril study found 10 of 16 venues face very high heat stress risk.
By 2050, nearly 90% of host stadiums will need extreme heat adaptations, and one third may face water shortages.
The report also assessed 2030 and 2034 World Cup venues and grassroots pitches where top players began.
Juan Mata highlighted football’s role in showing the stakes of climate change after last year’s Valencia floods.
The 2025 Club World Cup previewed risks, with extreme heat and storms forcing cooling breaks and fans.
Fourteen of 16 stadiums already exceed safety thresholds for heat, rainfall, or flooding.
Thirteen stadiums record at least one day above FIFA’s 32°C Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature summer threshold.
Dallas and Houston had 31 and 51 days respectively above 35°C WBGT, the human heat limit.
Even home and youth pitches, like those of Mo Salah and William Troost-Ekong, face extreme heat by 2050.
Experts urge moving matches to cooler months, committing to net-zero by 2040, and creating adaptation funds.
Fans support sustainability, with 91% wanting the 2026 World Cup to set an environmental example.