Climate change is affecting organised sport in unexpected ways, and that includes impacting the scheduling of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Fixtures, according to new research co-authored by Ulster University’s Dr Neil Brannigan, and led by Dr Donal Mullan from Queen’s University Belfast.
The results show that matches scheduled to be played at 14 out of 16 host locations in the North American-based tournament could be put at risk due to soaring temperatures.
Dr Neil Brannigan, Lecturer in Environmental Remote Sensing, said:
Nearly 90% of the North American stadiums hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup could experience dangerous heat levels, particularly between noon and 5 pm. This presents a serious health risk to players and match officials, who will be exposed to extreme temperatures that can lead to heat stress, dehydration, and an increased likelihood of heat-related illnesses.
For most locations, matches should be scheduled during the cooler parts of the day to help reduce the potential impact of extreme heat on players and match officials. Avoiding the hottest hours would be a sensible precaution.
The study highlights the need to carefully assess heat risk ahead of any major sporting events to help inform potential interventions needed in the scheduling of competitions in a warming climate.
For more information, read the full research paper.