FIFA to Use Roofed Stadiums for Next Year’s World Cup Amid Heat Concerns

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced that roofed stadiums will be utilized during next year’s World Cup to address rising concerns over dangerous temperatures affecting players. The tournament has faced criticism due to extreme heat, with several fixtures impacted.

During the ongoing Club World Cup, matches have been played under scorching conditions, including a semi-final where Chelsea faced Fluminense amid temperatures soaring to 35.5°C. Chelsea’s victory over ES Tunis was also challenged by the intense heat, which reached 39°C, prompting the declaration of a ‘Heat Health Emergency’ in the host city.

Chelsea’s coach Enzo Maresca expressed that training sessions were nearly impossible to organize under such conditions. The players’ union, FIFPRO, highlighted that three matches should have been postponed due to heat, and player Enzo Fernandez reported feeling dizzy during a match against Fluminense, describing conditions as ‘very dangerous.’

Additionally, thunderstorms have led to delays, including a Chelsea versus Benfica game that was suspended for over two hours. In response, Infantino reassured fans that next year’s venues will feature covered stadiums with cooling measures. He pointed out that several cities, such as Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, and Vancouver, already have stadiums equipped with roofs and air-conditioning.

For example, the upcoming final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey is scheduled for 3 pm local time, with expected temperatures around 28.8°C. Players have shared their struggles; Fernandez recounted feeling dizzy during a semi-final, emphasizing the dangers of playing in such heat.

Infantino stressed that heat is a significant concern and that matches will be held in stadiums with roofs to ensure player safety and preserve the quality of the game. He acknowledged ongoing debates about the tournament’s timing and structure but reiterated FIFA’s commitment to making the event as safe and enjoyable as possible, citing feedback from European teams invited to participate.