Extreme Heat Prompts Club World Cup Safety Concerns

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States has been marked by extreme heat, impacting matches in cities such as Pasadena, Miami, and Los Angeles, where temperatures have exceeded 32°C (90°F). Players, including Atletico Madrid's Marcos Llorente, have reported physical distress, while fans have faced dehydration and discomfort due to limited shade and water restrictions. The world players' union FIFPRO, along with coaches, has called for schedule changes, more cooling breaks, and possible match postponements to safeguard health. High-profile moments, including Lionel Messi's debut for Inter Miami and a historic MLS victory over FC Porto, have occurred alongside concerns about competitive imbalances and logistical issues. With most US stadiums lacking climate-controlled roofing, these problems have intensified worries for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Stakeholders are urging FIFA to address heat management urgently to protect players and fans in future tournaments.