Footballers from around the world have signed an open letter urging FIFA to introduce stronger heat safety protections ahead of the 2026 Men’s World Cup, warning that extreme temperatures could put players’ health at risk during the tournament.
The competition, set to be hosted across Canada, Mexico and the United States, will span 39 days and feature 104 matches involving 48 national teams. Players say many fixtures, training sessions and travel schedules will take place in conditions that medical experts classify as hazardous due to rising global temperatures.
The signatories include current and former professionals from more than 20 countries, including Argentina, Germany, Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom, the United States, Portugal, Kenya and Australia. In the letter, they stress that heat stress can significantly reduce performance while also increasing the risk of dehydration, cramps, dizziness and other serious health issues.
“We find it important that all players are protected from heat impacts, from the grassroots to the elite level,” the players wrote. “As the elite playing the World Cup sets the example for players around the world, it’s essential that the best available medical expertise is put into practice.”
The appeal follows a report from World Weather Attribution warning that “hazardous heat” conditions could emerge across several host cities during the tournament window. FIFPRO, the global players’ union, has also raised concerns, saying matches played in temperatures around 28°C may already pose risks to athlete safety.
FIFA has responded by highlighting a range of measures it says are designed to reduce heat-related risks. These include mandatory three-minute hydration breaks in each half of all matches, regardless of temperature, as well as expanded substitution allowances, including five regular changes, an additional substitution in extra time, and concussion replacements. Teams will also be guaranteed a minimum of three rest days between matches.
A FIFA spokesperson said climate risks are being assessed as part of broader tournament planning in coordination with host cities, stadium authorities and national agencies. The governing body added that scheduling decisions have been made to reduce exposure to peak daytime heat, with some kick-off times adjusted and warmer venues prioritised for covered stadiums where possible.
Despite these measures, concerns remain among players and medical experts. FIFA currently considers match postponement only when temperatures exceed 32°C, a threshold critics say may not adequately reflect the strain placed on athletes at lower levels of extreme heat.
With preparations continuing, players are calling for updated heat-stress protocols before the tournament begins, arguing that the scale and global visibility of the World Cup demand stronger protections.
