NWSL Threatens KC Current Fine Over 3.5-Hour Heat Delay

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) faced controversy when Commissioner Jessica Berman reportedly threatened to fine the Kansas City Current over a disagreement about extreme heat procedures that delayed their match against the Orlando Pride by about three and a half hours. Both teams had expressed concerns about playing in temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit and requested to postpone the game, but the league denied the request to maintain the scheduled broadcast window on CBS, citing potential multi-million dollar losses. The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) policy was a key factor, with the league deciding to delay kickoff until conditions fell below the 92.3-degree threshold. The delay sparked criticism from players, coaches, teams, and the NWSL Players Association, who raised issues about player and fan safety, especially after multiple heat-related medical incidents occurred during the event. Despite the postponement and safety concerns, the league emphasized its goal to play matches as scheduled whenever safely possible, basing decisions on real-time weather data. The NWSL has not publicly announced any fines, but the incident highlights tensions between broadcast obligations and health protocols within the league.