Health warning for England fans attending team’s World Cup opener in Texas
Academics have warned that England supporters attending the World Cup opener against Croatia in Texas next month are highly vulnerable to health complications from extreme heat.
The main concern is for fans outside the air-conditioned AT&T Stadium, who face prolonged exposure to high temperatures while travelling, queuing, and at outdoor fan events.
Research by the World Weather Attribution group indicates a one in three probability of the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) surpassing 28 degrees Celsius in Dallas for the 17 June match.
Dr Chris Millington from Imperial College London emphasised that spectators, due to their medical diversity and extended exposure, face greater danger than players.
While FIFA has introduced hydration breaks and a tiered heat mitigation model, academics suggest these measures are inadequate and advise reconsidering the timing of future World Cups.