England and other World Cup stars face serious health dangers from extreme heat during the 2026 tournament, according to a warning from the UN Climate Change executive secretary. Simon Stiell said that climate change is directly responsible for the dangerous temperatures, humidity and weather conditions that threaten players and fans across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“We’re all watching the game, but it’s stopped – because it’s too hot,” Stiell said. “Hot for players, for fans, for everyone. It’s hot and getting hotter. That’s not random. That’s climate change.” He added that the planet is heating up due to burning fossil fuels, trapping heat in the atmosphere and affecting everything from football to food supplies.
USA midfielder Malik Tillman also highlighted the impact of climate change, noting that wildfires have become more frequent. “We as human beings have to adapt certain things to make sure that future generations get to enjoy those memories as well and protect the sport we all love,” he said.
FIFA has introduced heat breaks, reviewed kick-off times since the Club World Cup, and will use three indoor stadiums for the 2026 tournament. The governing body also engaged with player union groups after FIFPro expressed major concerns about the danger of temperatures during matches.
