Overview

• An international Pitches in Peril study finds 10 of the 16 stadiums slated for 2026 already exceed safe heat thresholds for play.
• The analysis, using the WBGT index, estimates numerous 2025 unplayable days, including Houston 51, Dallas 33, Kansas City 17, Atlanta and Monterrey 9, Miami 8, Philadelphia 7, New Jersey 3, Boston 2 and Los Angeles 1.
• Afternoon conditions in June and July could reach effective temperatures above about 49.5°C in Arlington, Houston and Monterrey, elevating risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• By 2050, nearly 90% of venues would require adaptation, with projected unplayable days rising to Houston 92, Dallas 64, Miami 54 and Monterrey 29.
• Authors and experts urge night scheduling, stronger in-match heat protocols, better stadium ventilation or retractable roofs, and some cite Qatar 2022’s winter shift as precedent, with public backing from former Spain international Juan Mata.