FIFPro Issues Warning Over Extreme Heat at Club World Cup
Global footballers’ union FIFPro has called for urgent changes to mitigate the effects of extreme heat on players, citing the challenging conditions at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup as a “wake-up call” for FIFA.
As temperatures soar across the United States, many players and coaches have voiced concerns about the brutal heat affecting match performance. FIFPro’s study revealed that six of the 16 venues for the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America pose an “extremely high risk” of heat-related injuries, including Miami, which is also hosting Club World Cup matches.
“This tournament is a crucial reminder for everyone to reconsider match scheduling in future events,” said Alexander Bielefeld, FIFPro’s director of policy and strategic relations. Matches during the Club World Cup have often kicked off at midday or early afternoon, exacerbating the heat issue.
Atletico Madrid’s Marcos Llorente described the conditions as “impossible” after his team lost 4-0 to Paris Saint-Germain in Pasadena. FIFPro has been in discussions with FIFA to avoid scheduling matches during the hottest parts of the day, although they have no veto power over kickoff times.
While FIFPro has welcomed some measures, such as increased access to water and cooling towels, calls for longer halftime breaks and more frequent cooling breaks have emerged. FIFPro’s medical director, Vincent Gouttebarge, proposed extending halftime from 15 to 20 minutes during extreme heat.
As the Club World Cup progresses, FIFPro emphasizes the need for enhanced protocols to ensure player safety, particularly with the 2026 World Cup approaching. Their focus remains on addressing the dangers posed by high temperatures, advocating for a more player-centric approach in scheduling future matches.
