World Cup may be forced into winter in future
Reports also looks at risks for 2030 and 2034 editions
The 2026 World Cup could be North America’s last without urgent climate adaptation, according to a new study highlighting extreme weather threats.
The Pitches in Peril report found that 10 of the 16 venues are at very high risk of experiencing extreme heat stress conditions. By 2050, nearly 90% of North America’s host stadiums will require adaptation to extreme heat while one third will face water demand equalling or exceeding supply.
The report also highlighted risks to 2030 and 2034 World Cup venues – the tournament will be co-hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal in 2030 and Saudi Arabia in 2034 – and examined the impact of a warming climate on grassroots pitches once used by 18 famous players.
