How could extreme weather affect World Cup 2026? - BBC Weather

With almost a month to go until the start of the World Cup, Simon King looks ahead to the weather's potential to disrupt the tournament this summer.

Image source, GettyBySimon King Lead Weather PresenterPublished10 May 2026, 03:56 BSTWith just a month to go until the biggest football tournament in the world begins, attention is turning not just to the teams and venues, but to the weather.

Heat, thunderstorms and even poor air quality from wildfires are all features of summer across the United States, Canada and Mexico, where the tournament will be held.

Humidity may also be a key factor in any disruption to the World Cup caused by the weather.

Fifa has acknowledged that hot weather could be an issue and, as part of its "commitment to player welfare", has introduced mandatory three-minute cooling breaks in each half of every match for the tournament.

Image source, GettyImage caption, Thunderstorms during the Fifa Club World Cup in 2025 meant there were multiple games delayed