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5d ago

FIFA Plans Roofed Stadiums for Daytime 2026 World Cup Matches as Heat Risks Rise

Experts warn that broader calendar reforms are needed to shield athletes from escalating summer heat

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. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File)
FILE - Palmeiras' Vitor Roque sits on the side of the pitch in a cooling mist after being substituted during the Club World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Palmeiras and Botafogo in Philadelphia, Sunday, June 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)
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Overview

  • Gianni Infantino confirmed that all daytime matches at the 2026 World Cup will take place in roofed venues to limit exposure to extreme temperatures.
  • FIFA implemented its extreme heat protocol at the 2025 Club World Cup, adding extra breaks, enhanced sideline hydration and shaded, fan-cooled benches.
  • FIFPRO has identified six of the 16 host cities for next year’s tournament as being at “extremely high risk” of heat stress.
  • Climate data from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show global summer temperatures have climbed by more than 1°C since 1930, heightening concerns over player welfare.
  • Talks are underway about shifting future World Cups to cooler months or latitudes, but no formal change to the June–July schedule has been announced.