The peak heat wave in the US has caused many serious concerns. After a series of matches at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, many players and coaches simultaneously spoke out about the situation of competition in harsh weather conditions.
Notably, this could be repeated at the 2026 World Cup when the tournament is held in June and 7 years later.
According to a report from the World Professional Players' Association (FIFPRO), at least 3 matches at the recent Club World Cup should have been postponed, when the wet body temperature index (WBGT) exceeded the safe threshold of 28°C.
The semi-final match between Chelsea and Fluminense at MetLife Stadium (New Jersey) on July 8 even recorded WBGT reaching over 35°C - a temperature that could endanger the health of athletes.
Even top stars like Enzo Fernandez have to admit that their physical condition is seriously affected.
In fact, fans have repeatedly expressed disappointment in the speed and professional quality of this year's matches. Under the harsh summer sun of the US, the pace of the match slowed down significantly, the players clearly showed their fatigue.
Mr. Wenger - the head of FIFA's global football development department must admit that the weather is a factor that needs to be seriously calculated.
The organization of the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico next summer is causing many people to worry, especially when the host country is famous for record-breaking heat waves during this time.
"There will definitely be more covered stadiums next year because we still have to follow the broadcast schedule. We are learning to better equip ourselves to deal with these conditions," Wenger said.
Experts believe that if FIFA does not soon make adjustments, from the match schedule to medical work, facilities conditions (coolidation regime, roofs...), the World Cup next year could face a series of serious problems both in the health of players and the quality of the tournament.
