The FIFA World Cup 2026 in the USA, Canada and Mexico is already casting its shadow ahead – and with it a problem that has caused heated discussions at previous tournaments: extreme temperatures. In particular, the venues Dallas and Monterrey are considered heat hotspots, where temperatures regularly exceed 35 degrees Celsius in June and July. The world governing body thus faces the challenge of protecting the health of players without destabilizing the fixture schedule.
Already at the Club World Cup in summer 2025, which served as a dress rehearsal for the major tournament, the problems became evident. Players complained of circulatory problems, coaches like Borussia Dortmund's Niko Kovac or Chelsea's Enzo Maresca openly criticized the conditions. In Cincinnati, Charlotte and also in Dallas, matches were played in sweltering heat, sometimes with heat index values of over 40 degrees. FIFA has learned lessons from these experiences – at least that's what it promises.
Specifically, the world governing body is planning a package of measures to reduce the strain on the professionals. These include mandatory drinking breaks, so-called "cooling breaks," which have been standard since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. They are to be implemented earlier and more consistently in the future, as soon as the WBGT index (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) exceeds certain thresholds. Additional medical stations on the sidelines, cooled dressing rooms and enhanced air conditioning in the team areas are also on the agenda.
Stadiums with retractable roofs are likely to play a central role. The AT&T Stadium in Arlington near Dallas, home of the Dallas Cowboys, features a retractable roof and air conditioning. Midday matches should take place here if possible to protect players from direct sunlight. The situation is more difficult in Monterrey, where the Estadio BBVA has no roof. Here, FIFA is considering adjusted kick-off times – evening matches could be preferred.
But that is precisely where the conflict lies: kick-off times traditionally align with the needs of TV broadcasters, particularly European markets. A shift to late evening hours would massively affect viewing figures in Germany, Italy or Spain. FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently emphasized that player welfare is the top priority – but whether FIFA ultimately gives preference to the interests of TV broadcasters or athletes remains to be seen. The summer of 2026 will show whether the world governing body has learned from the mistakes of the past.