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12h ago

FIFA Implements Interim Heat Measures as Experts Urge World Cup Calendar Overhaul

Testing new cooling protocols, FIFA has reserved covered stadiums to respond to escalating summer heat threats.

FILE - Al Ain's Park Yong-woo splashes his face to cool off during the Club World Cup Group G soccer match between Wydad AC and Al Ain FC in Washington, June 26, 2025.
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Overview

  • FIFA has introduced extra cooling breaks, field-side water, fan-cooled benches and plans to use covered stadiums for daytime World Cup matches.
  • Climate scientists and player representatives have renewed calls to shift future tournaments to cooler months or regions to reduce heat-related health risks.
  • U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data shows June–August temperatures have risen 1.05 °C globally and 1.81 °C in Europe since 1930.
  • FIFPRO warns that six of the 16 host cities for the next World Cup face extremely high risk of heat stress for players and fans.
  • Discussions on moving the World Cup from its traditional June–July window remain unresolved, with potential changes for 2030 and 2034 hindered by European league scheduling conflicts.