One in Five 2026 World Cup Matches Played in Heat FIFPRO Says Should Trigger Delays

A Guardian analysis published July 16, 2026 found that an estimated 20 of the 2026 World Cup's 104 matches were played at or above 28°C Wet Bulb Globe Temperature — the threshold players' union FIFPRO says should trigger delays or postponements. A further 23 matches faced dangerous heat but benefited from stadium air conditioning. FIFA's own intervention threshold sits four degrees higher, at 32°C, and has not adopted FIFPRO's standard.