Experts insist climate change is at the heart of the issues which threaten players and fans at games across the United States, Canada and Mexico.18:30, 08 Jun 2026Updated 18:31, 08 Jun 2026World Cup stars are being warned they could be at risk from “heat stroke” and other serious health dangers this summer.‌England stars have been told they could be at risk because of dangerous temperatures, humidity and extreme weather conditions. Experts insist climate change is at the heart of the issue which threatens players and fans at games across the United States, Canada and Mexico.‌UN Climate Change say the weather, climate and conditions will provide a major threat and they say that is as a direct result of climate change.‌They are warning:“Extreme heat” conditions have doubled since the 1994 World Cup in the USExperts believe 26 of the 104 games will be played in “hazardous heat”Five matches could be played in “postponement level” heatMiami, Kansas City and Philadelphia most at risk but semi finals and final in New Jersey at riskWorld Cup games will be slower because of the extreme heat limiting players and their performanceMore substitutions will be needed because of exhaustionGet the latest World Cup 2026 news in your inbox with our Make Football Great Again newsletter‌Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change, said: “We’re all watching the game, but it’s stopped – because it’s too hot.“Hot for players, for fans, for everyone. It’s hot and getting hotter. That’s not random. That’s climate change. The planet is heating up after more than a century of burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. That traps heat in the atmosphere. And now we’re feeling it – everywhere.“On the pitch, at every level – from the highest levels of international football to the grassroots game – it means more extreme heat. More fatigue. Harder decisions, slower reactions, players and fans in the red zone. And it’s not just the things we love, like football and the many other sports under serious pressure from global heating. It's also the things we need – like food, as global heating hits harvests and pushes up prices for everyone.‌“Sport is the world ’s greatest unifying force, and football is the world’s biggest sport. If people who love football speak up to protect it from climate impacts like extreme heat, it will be a game-changer. Because this isn’t just about saving sport. It’s about protecting the world sport depends on – that we all depend on. So next time you see a drinks break, or a match delayed by extreme heat, remember why. Coal, oil and gas are heating our planet.“And remember this: the health of the game – and of our world – depends on the choices we make now.”‌USA midfielder Malik Tillman added: “I know wild fires become more frequent and this is because of the climate change. We as human beings have to adapt certain things to make sure that future generations get to enjoy those memories as well and protect the sport we all love.”FIFA have introduced heat breaks, reviewed kick off times since the Club World Cup and are also using three indoor stadiums.They also engaged with player union groups after the Club World Cup after FIFPro expressed major concerns about the danger and threat of temperatures during games.Article continues belowJoin our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.