Report warns of extreme heat risks at 2026 World Cup, including France v Senegal | OneFootball

France v Senegal on 16 June is among 2026 World Cup fixtures rated high risk for extreme heat, scientists warn.

According to L'Équipe, a World Weather Attribution report says the tournament, running from 11 June to 19 July, faces oppressive temperatures and flags at least five games as dangerous for players’ health.

The collective estimates that 26 of the 104 matches could be played in severe heat, more likely than in 1994 in North America because of climate change.

Athletes’ heat stress was gauged with the wet bulb globe temperature index, which also factors in humidity, sunlight and cloud cover, and governs how the body cools. Seemingly moderate air temperatures can become intolerable, even lethal, when humidity is high.

High risk ties were identified at open-air venues in Miami, Kansas City and at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. The match there is scheduled for 21:00 in France and 15:00 local time. Five of these fixtures could exceed 28°C WBGT, a threshold at which the players’ union suggests matches should be cancelled.

Some stadiums are air conditioned, reducing danger for players and spectators, but fans gathering outdoors could still face hazards, with fewer medical staff on hand.

Source: L'Équipe