FIFPRO, the global union representing professional footballers, has sounded the alarm over the scheduling of matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging FIFA to reconsider midday and afternoon kick-offs in cities where players face extreme risk of heat-stress injuries.

In a strongly-worded statement, FIFPRO identified cities like Kansas City, Miami, and Monterrey as “extremely high risk” locations due to their intense summer temperatures. While cities such as Atlanta, Dallas, and Houston are also flagged, the presence of climate-control systems — including retractable roofs and indoor cooling — could help reduce the danger.

Only two of the tournament’s 16 host cities — San Francisco and Vancouver — were classified as ‘low risk.’

The union’s concerns follow backlash from the recent FIFA Club World Cup, where matches — particularly those played at midday in Los Angeles — were held under scorching conditions. FIFPRO criticised these scheduling decisions as hazardous and unacceptable, warning that similar practices during the World Cup could endanger the health and safety of players.

“Subjecting players to intense heat for prolonged periods without adequate adaptation is reckless,” a spokesperson said.

“We’ve seen the effects firsthand at the Club World Cup — the consequences could be far worse at the World Cup if no changes are made.”

While FIFPRO does not hold regulatory power over FIFA, it continues to apply pressure by presenting medical data and advocating for player welfare. Among their proposals are significant changes to matchday protocols:
Longer halftimes: Increasing the break to 20 minutes to allow for proper recovery.
Frequent cooling breaks: Introducing shorter, more frequent hydration pauses rather than the current three-minute interruptions.
Enhanced pitchside facilities: Including shaded benches, misting fans, and cold-water immersion units.
FIFA has already implemented limited measures such as increased hydration protocols and cooling equipment near the dugouts, but FIFPRO insists more must be done — and urgently.

With the 2026 World Cup set to be the largest in history — spanning 48 teams and hosted across the US, Mexico, and Canada — managing environmental risks will be just as crucial as organising logistics. For the players set to perform on the grandest stage, it’s not just about glory — it’s about safety.

As anticipation builds for the tournament, the spotlight is now firmly on FIFA: Will they act in time to prioritise player welfare, or risk a global spectacle marred by medical emergencies?