Club World Cup Heat Leaves Enzo Fernández Dizzy, Spurs FIFA Scheduling Debate

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández has expressed serious concerns about the intense heat conditions at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, describing the temperatures as "very dangerous" and recounting a moment when he became dizzy and had to lie down during a match against Fluminense. Fernández highlighted how the sweltering heat, reaching up to 95°F (35°C) or higher, has slowed the pace of games, affected player safety, and diminished the spectacle for fans both in stadiums and watching at home. He has urged FIFA to reconsider scheduling for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, advocating for later or nighttime kick-off times to preserve player health and maintain the game's intensity. FIFA has responded to the heat challenges by introducing cooling breaks midway through each half during the Club World Cup. Chelsea's coach and players acknowledge the difficulties but remain focused on the upcoming final against Paris Saint-Germain, scheduled for a mid-afternoon kick-off in New Jersey. The debate over scheduling and player safety continues as the tournament proceeds under challenging weather conditions.