A timelapse video shows the World Cup 2026 final stadium being covered in a thick blanket of smoke from Canada’s wildfires. Officials in New York and New Jersey have issued an air quality health alert as a result of smoke caused by more than 800 burning wildfires north of the border. Footage shows the MetLife Stadium, where Spain and Argentina will face off on Sunday (19 July), barely visible as it is engulfed by smoky haze. The venue, which has a capacity of 82,500, does not have a roof, meaning players and spectators will likely be exposed to the smoky conditions unless they clear in the next few days.

New York City has been dealing with a "Code Red" due to the heat and air quality advisories from Canadian wildfire smoke days before the Spain-Argentina World Cup final.

Smoke from Canadian wildfires has placed a haze upon New York City, Toronto, and several other major metropolitan areas.

Authorities issue health warnings after smoke from wildfires in Canada envelops north-eastern US