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The FIFA Club World Cup is facing growing criticism as players and fans alike endure dangerous heat conditions across several U.S. host cities. With on-pitch temperatures often exceeding 32°C (90°F) and humidity driving the “feels like” index even higher, concerns over player safety and fan health have taken center stage.
Players Feel the Heat
Footballers have openly voiced frustration, with Atlético Madrid’s Marcos Llorente describing conditions as “terribly hot” and “almost unplayable.”
“My toes were sore, my nails were hurting… it’s unbelievable,” Llorente said after a match in Pasadena.
Even Chelsea had to cut training short in Philadelphia due to heat described by head coach Enzo Maresca as “impossible to manage.”
FIFA mandates a cooling break per half when temperatures exceed 32°C, but players’ unions argue the current rules are insufficient.
Fans Overwhelmed by Conditions
Supporters have also suffered in open-air stadiums with limited shade and restricted water access, especially in cities like Miami and Charlotte.
Many fans were seen leaving matches early due to heat-related fatigue, while others reported symptoms of dehydration and dizziness.
One fan in Charlotte called the experience a “heat endurance test” rather than a football celebration.
Experts and Unions Raise Red Flags
Medical professionals and player unions, including FIFPRO, have raised alarms about the risk of heatstroke, urging FIFA to adopt:
Earlier or later kick-off times
More hydration breaks
Greater flexibility in rescheduling matches
FIFA responded by saying it prioritizes health and safety, noting the implementation of hydration protocols and additional substitutes in extreme heat. Still, critics say those measures fall short under the current U.S. heat dome.
Implications for 2026 World Cup
The Club World Cup is widely seen as a test run for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will also be held in North America during summer. With a larger tournament on the horizon, these heat-related issues could force FIFA to rethink match scheduling and stadium safety protocols.
Bottom Line:
Extreme heat has disrupted matches and endangered the well-being of both players and fans at the Club World Cup. With global attention on the U.S. ahead of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA faces increasing pressure to adopt stronger heat safety measures.
