New Report Warns of Extreme Heat Risks During the 2026 FIFA World Cup
tags
Climate Power En Accion highlights disproportionate climate risks facing Latino communities during tournament matches in cities like Houston and Dallas.
WASHINGTON — A new report by the international research group World Weather Attribution warns that this summer’s FIFA World Cup in North America will face serious health risks due to extreme heat and humidity intensified by climate change. Researchers found that at least 26 matches, roughly 25% of the tournament, are likely to be played in temperatures above 78.8℉, exceeding heat safety limits established by the global union of professional football players. At least five matches are likely to face temperatures above 82℉, conditions considered dangerous for both players and fans.
The highest-risk games are expected to take place in cities like Houston and Dallas, where Latinos make up more than 40% of the population. Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States, and the heat-related mortality among Latinos has risen by almost 30% in recent years.
In response, Antonieta Cádiz, Executive Director for Climate Power En Acción, issued the following statement:
“For Latino families, the World Cup is far more than a sporting event, it’s a deeply meaningful cultural celebration. This report makes clear that extreme weather is already threatening even our most joyful moments. While scientists continue to sound the alarm about rising heat risks, the Trump administration and its allies have weakened climate protections and clean energy investments that would help keep our communities safe. Latino families deserve a World Cup defined by joy and celebration, not by dangerous heat and denial.”
###