Rising global temperatures are directly disrupting international football tournaments.
An analysis by The Guardian found that nearly one in five of the tournament's 100-plus matches occurred under heat and humidity levels that should prompt delays or postponements according to player union standards.
>>> Argentina Defeats England, Advances to World Cup Final
An additional 23 matches took place in cities experiencing severe heat, though conditions were mitigated inside venues by stadium air conditioning.
Climate Crisis Hits Football
"The climate crisis is hitting the things we all need, like a stable climate, clean air and affordable food, as well as the things we love, like football and other sports," said Simon Stiell, executive secretary of the United Nations climate body.
The evaluation examined environmental conditions of 104 matches, including completed games and forecasts for final fixtures.
This shift presents broader structural challenges for football as intense heat waves become more frequent, threatening athlete and fan safety.
"The 2026 Fifa World Cup matches have introduced a true stress test of heat mitigation and preparedness," said Joshua L DeVincenzo, assistant director at Columbia University's National Center for Disaster Preparedness.
"Fifa, spectators, stadium operators, and others were tested firsthand on the disruptions and complications that extreme heat and weather can pose."
The findings emerged during a record-breaking heat wave across the United States, placing over 125 million Americans under dangerous heat alerts.
An estimated 20 matches were played where the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) reached or exceeded 28C (82F).
