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Scientists Warn FIFA: 14 Stadiums May Exceed Safe Heat Limits

5/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Scientists warned FIFA that heat measures are inadequate for the 2026 World Cup in United States, Canada and Mexico.
Temperatures at 14 of 16 stadiums may reach 40 °C, with a quarter facing WBGT >= 26 °C.
FIFPRO deems WBGT >= 28 °C unsafe, while FIFA will postpone only above 32 °C.
The July 19 final in East Rutherford has a one-in-8 chance of WBGT 26 °C and a one-in-37 chance of WBGT 28 °C, prompting calls for longer cooling breaks.

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Story summary

Scientists warned FIFA that heat measures are inadequate for the 2026 World Cup in United States, Canada and Mexico.
Temperatures at 14 of 16 stadiums may reach 40 °C, with a quarter facing WBGT >= 26 °C.
FIFPRO deems WBGT >= 28 °C unsafe, while FIFA will postpone only above 32 °C.
The July 19 final in East Rutherford has a one-in-8 chance of WBGT 26 °C and a one-in-37 chance of WBGT 28 °C, prompting calls for longer cooling breaks.