Some of the games that will take place during the 2026 FIFA World Cup might be held under unsafe heat conditions, a recent study reveals.

In their analysis, scientists revealed that several host cities for the upcoming FIFA competition might witness heat waves that could threaten the safety of players, organizers, and spectators, especially in games taking place during the day.

For the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it has been planned to host several games in different cities in North America - in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, in the summertime.

The report by researchers showed that the wet-bulb globe temperature might exceed the recommended safe limits for certain days of the tournament at selected host locations. Wet-bulb temperature is a measurement that involves several factors - including heat, humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed.

Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to adverse health effects and influence athletic performance.

An analysis of past weather trends and future projections related to climatic changes was carried out. From this study, it was found that there would be a higher risk of heat during day games than at night games in some of the tournament-hosting countries.

In addition to this, the researchers have also mentioned that climate-induced heat risks could become an increasing factor affecting global sporting events scheduled during summertime. They further stated that planning and cooling strategies would become even more important in such circumstances.

Several sporting events in recent years have suffered disruption due to weather hazards, including heatwaves and low air quality.

Some of the soccer federations and tournament organizers have incorporated breaks and altered scheduling strategies when temperatures remain high, according to the report. However, other adaptation efforts will likely be necessary in future tournaments, stated the researchers.

Sports and climate experts have been expressing their worries regarding the health risks posed to athletes because of rising global temperatures. Outdoor sporting events have become increasingly vulnerable because of sustained physical activity and crowd presence in large numbers.

The study follows other related conversations on how to build climate resilience within sports facilities and events. The researchers suggested that future international sporting events will need more thought regarding the effects of seasonal temperature changes when selecting the venue for an event.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first time there will be a total of 48 participating nations in the tournament.