How hot will it be at the 2026 World Cup and is it dangerous for players and fans?

"It's set to be hot in North America this summer. The seasonal temperature outlook for the US, compiled by the National Weather Service, suggests every part of the country will experience temperatures above the historical average in June and July. It's into this environment that 48 men's national teams will arrive, all competing to win the World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico."

"High levels of heat and humidity will impact the ability of teams to perform on the field. Wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) is a measure that captures this risk. WBGT takes into account not just the temperature of the air but three further measurements: humidity, radiant heat (eg direct sunlight) and wind speed. Sporting bodies use WBGT to define limits at which elite sport should be played and, under published Fifa rules, if WBGT measurements reach 32C before a match, consideration should be given to suspending the fixture."

"According to Fifpro, however, that level should be set lower, at 28C. Wet bulb explainer Research published earlier this year in the journal Temperature found that in 31 of the 57 matches played during last summer's Club World Cup the mean WGBT temperature was above 28C. Analysing performance data for eac"

"Included among the findings is that each of the matches staged in Miami is likely to exceed key temperature thresholds, while every venue bar the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City has had heat levels rise over the past 30 years. Researchers warn that many games will be unsafe for players and fans."

North America is expected to be hotter than historical averages in June and July, with the US seeing above-average temperatures nationwide. Forty-eight men’s national teams will compete in the World Cup across the US, Canada, and Mexico, where meteorological conditions may stress players and fans. Heat and humidity can reduce on-field performance, and wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) is used to quantify risk by combining air temperature, humidity, radiant heat, and wind speed. FIFA rules indicate that if WBGT reaches 32C before a match, suspension should be considered, while FIFPRO urges a lower 28C threshold. Research from the prior Club World Cup found mean WBGT above 28C in most matches, and venue heat levels have increased over decades, with Miami matches likely exceeding key thresholds.

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