Experts caution that players and supporters will face dangerous heat and humidity conditions at the upcoming World Cup. World Weather Attribution (WWA) analysis reveals that climate change has increased temperature risks for participants compared to the previous US-hosted World Cup in 1994.
The global players’ union FIFPRO is urging for precautionary measures before the tournament in the US, Mexico, and Canada. Approximately 25% of the 104 scheduled games may experience temperatures surpassing 26°C (78.8°F) on the wet bulb global temperature (WBGT) system, affecting the body’s cooling ability.
Games at significant risk of exceeding the temperature benchmark include the tournament final, set in New York and New Jersey on July 19, along with two quarter-finals and a third-place play-off. WWA predicts about five matches could occur with WBGT above 28°C (82.4°F), a level deemed unsafe by FIFPRO, recommending game postponements.
Dr. Vincent Gouttebarge, FIFPRO medical director, aligns with WWA’s findings, emphasizing the necessity for mitigation strategies to safeguard players’ health and performance in hot conditions. Dr. Friederike Otto, a climate science professor at Imperial College London, emphasizes the tangible impact of climate change on hosting World Cups in the northern hemisphere summer.
The concerns follow complaints from last year’s Club World Cup participants regarding extreme heat during matches. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez described playing in hazardous heat conditions, while England manager Thomas Tuchel considers keeping substitutes in the dressing room due to high temperatures.
Twenty world-renowned scientists have signed a letter calling on FIFA to revise its approach, advocating for measures like match delays in excessive heat, longer cooling breaks, improved player cooling facilities, and updated guidelines based on scientific advancements. FIFA plans to implement a tiered heat mitigation model at the tournament, tailored to real-time circumstances.
The tournament scheduling considers climate factors, with adjustments in kick-off times, prioritizing matches in covered stadiums during warmer periods, and minimizing travel for reduced heat exposure. FIFA assures continuous monitoring of conditions, collaboration with medical experts, and contingency plans to ensure a safe and resilient competition.
England’s World Cup team faces intense humidity and unique weather conditions, including ‘corn sweat,’ at their US training base in Kansas City. The phenomenon, caused by corn plants releasing water vapor, intensifies humidity levels, potentially making heat waves more severe.
The choice of location aims to reduce travel and prepare for potential matches in Mexico City later in the tournament. FIFA, although not directly addressing the scientists’ concerns, emphasizes adaptive measures and real-time monitoring to ensure player safety and tournament success.
