A new report has highlighted the increasing threat of extreme heat to the 2026 FIFA World Cup venues in North America. The study, titled Pitches in Peril, warns that climate risks could impact 10 of the 16 host cities, with nearly 90% of the stadiums expected to need climate adaptations by 2050. The report is a collaboration between Football for the Future, Common Goal, and Jupiter Intelligence.
The findings suggest that extreme heat, rainfall, and flooding are already a concern for most of the proposed venues, including cities like Houston and Dallas, where temperatures routinely exceed 35°C. These regions are expected to experience even more intense heatwaves in the coming decades. In fact, Houston is predicted to face up to 51 days annually with temperatures surpassing the threshold for human adaptability, which could have serious implications for both players and fans.
The challenges were recently demonstrated during the 2025 Club World Cup in the U.S., where extreme weather forced FIFA to introduce measures such as cooling breaks, shaded benches, and air fans to protect participants. These adjustments highlight the urgent need for proactive climate adaptation strategies, especially with the 2026 World Cup fast approaching.
Experts suggest that relocating matches to cooler months or cities may be necessary to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone involved. The report also calls on the football industry to accelerate efforts towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 and implement clear strategies to mitigate climate risks at major events. Public support for these measures is strong, with 91% of fans across the three host countries backing sustainability initiatives for the tournament.
As global temperatures continue to rise, the 2026 World Cup will face unprecedented climate challenges. Adapting to these conditions is crucial not only to ensure the tournament’s success but also to protect the integrity of the sport and the safety of participants.
