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A group of internationally renowned scientists and experts have called on FIFA to strengthen protective measures against high temperatures during the 2026 World Cup, warning that current protocols could seriously endanger the health of players.
In a letter to world football's top governing body, health, climate and sports performance specialists argue that existing guidelines are not in line with the latest scientific research and are "difficult to justify." They are calling for stronger measures, including longer interruptions during matches and the possibility of postponing them in extreme weather conditions.
High temperatures are expected to be a serious challenge during the tournament, which will take place in the US, Canada and Mexico. Researchers warn that temperatures could reach dangerous levels in 14 of the 16 host stadiums.
In the southern United States and northern Mexico, average daytime temperatures range from 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, while in the hottest periods they can approach 40 degrees Celsius.
According to experts, when humidity, wind, and strong solar radiation are added to the temperature, the risk of extreme thermal stress in players increases significantly.
On the other hand, FIFA states that it remains "committed to protecting the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff", emphasizing that climate risks are part of the tournament's planning.
FIFA's current measures
As part of player welfare measures, FIFA has imposed mandatory three-minute refreshment breaks in each half of the match, regardless of weather conditions.
Also, in all matches held in open stadiums there will be climate-controlled benches for technical staff and reserve players.
FIFA also uses the WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) index, which measures heat stress in the body by combining temperature and humidity. A level of around 28°C is considered the threshold where heat becomes a serious concern for professional athletes.
According to FIFA's emergency manual, if the WBGT reaches or exceeds 32°C, organizers must put in place additional measures to avoid heat-related health problems.
For fans, FIFA has envisaged allowing sealed water bottles, as well as creating shaded areas, cooling mist systems, air-conditioned buses and additional water distribution points.
What do experts look for?
The 20 experts who signed the letter, including academics from the UK, US, Canada, Australia and Europe, are calling for an urgent review of current protocols.
They propose:
Postponement of matches when WBGT exceeds 28°C;
Cooling breaks of at least six minutes;
More effective equipment to reduce players' body temperature;
Continuously updating the guidelines according to the latest scientific studies.
The experts also call on FIFA to consider the standards proposed by the global players' union, Fifpro.
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