How Extreme Heat Could Affect the 2026 World Cup — And What Fans Should Expect

As the football world looks toward Friday’s World Cup draw in Washington DC, a growing concern is gaining attention: the threat of extreme weather. With the 2026 tournament set to unfold across sixteen host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, experts warn that high temperatures, poor air quality, and severe storms could disrupt matches and add major costs for fans and organisers.

Host cities are already working on major preparations. Stadium upgrades, staffing, transportation logistics, and security plans are all in progress. But the climate is not something organisers can fully control. With the tournament scheduled for June and July, meteorologists and researchers say the risk of extreme heat and other weather-related disruptions is high.

A recent report titled Pitches in Peril found that ten of the sixteen venues face a “very high risk” of extreme heat stress conditions during the tournament. Maddy Orr, a Toronto-based researcher who studies climate impacts on professional sport, says heat is only one part of the challenge. Wildfires in North America have increasingly affected air quality during the summer months. Certain southern and coastal cities could face the added threat of hurricanes or tropical storms.

Orr explains that the most significant cost linked to climate risks may come from cancelled or delayed matches. If a game cannot be played organisers may be required to refund tickets, compensate stadium workers or pay additional fees related to safety measures and rescheduling. These complications could quickly result in millions of dollars in financial losses for each disrupted match.

This issue is not hypothetical. Last summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, held in the United States, offered a preview of what extreme weather may mean for major tournaments. Several matches were delayed because of heavy rain and lightning storms in Orlando. The second half of Benfica’s match against Auckland City was postponed by more than two hours. Another match, Mamelodi Sundowns versus Ulsan HD, also faced delays. Games in New Jersey and Cincinnati saw long pauses that stretched into forty and ninety minutes.

While organisers did not disclose the cost of these interruptions, Orr says the financial risks are substantial. Contracts with broadcasters, fan zones and food vendors all depend on matches taking place as scheduled. If a game is halted or cancelled the contractual obligations remain, leaving organisers responsible for covering lost revenue or additional expenses.

For fans planning to attend the World Cup the best approach may be preparation and flexibility. Hydration, heat protection, travel insurance and backup plans for delays could become essential. Cities are also working on cooling stations, shaded areas and emergency protocols to keep spectators safe.

The 2026 World Cup is expected to be the biggest in history, but it may also be the most climate challenged. As Orr notes, extreme weather will not stop the tournament, but it will shape how fans, teams and organisers experience it.