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As the 2026 World Cup approaches, labour advocates are sounding alarms about the perilous heat conditions that workers will face across various host cities in the US. With temperatures projected to exceed 90°F (32°C) in some areas, there is growing concern for the health and safety of those tasked with supporting the tournament. Advocates are emphasising the urgent need for protective measures to shield these individuals from extreme heat-related illnesses and potential fatalities.
The Heat Is On: A Dire Forecast
With the World Cup set to unfold in 16 cities—including 11 in the US—Southern locations like Miami, Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta are expected to bear the brunt of sweltering heat. As Jonathan Alingu, co-executive director of Central Florida Jobs With Justice, pointed out, “It’s going to be extremely hot, and you just cannot leave people unprotected or you’re going to deal with a lot of injuries—or, God forbid, something even worse.”
This year’s tournament marks a significant moment, as the planet has heated up over 1°F (0.56°C) since the last World Cup was held in North America. Experts are warning that this could be the hottest event in the tournament’s history, raising the stakes for the thousands of workers who will labour under these conditions.
Workers at Risk: Who Will Be Affected?
A recent study has revealed alarming statistics regarding the working conditions that World Cup staff will encounter. Many will toil in environments that exceed recommended heat exposure limits, risking heat exhaustion and other serious health issues. Andrew Grundstein, a climatologist at the University of Georgia, emphasised the breadth of the workforce at risk: “If you think about the delivery people, law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, people selling concessions or collecting tickets, a whole network of people are going to face heat-related hazards.”
The study utilised historical weather data and wet-bulb globe temperatures—considered a comprehensive measure of heat stress that factors in humidity and wind speed—to assess risks. While southern cities are particularly vulnerable, even locations with milder climates should brace for unusually high temperatures.
Moreover, the absence of air conditioning in some stadiums, including venues in Miami and New York, could exacerbate the danger. Workers carrying heavy loads or those in physically demanding roles, like construction and maintenance, are especially susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Protecting Workers: What Measures Are in Place?
To mitigate these risks, experts are advocating for mandated breaks, as well as access to water and shaded areas. Jordan Barab, a former assistant secretary of labour at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), stated, “We’ve known for decades, if not centuries, how to protect workers against heat-related illness and death. It’s not that hard, it’s not that expensive, but there are far too many employers who are still neglecting those precautions.”
While FIFA does not directly oversee employment conditions—leaving that to local organisers and contractors—it can influence safety through agreements and venue requirements. FIFA has indicated its commitment to safeguarding the health of all involved, stating that climate-related risks are incorporated into tournament planning.
In a bid to counter the heat, FIFA has scheduled many matches for later in the day and is implementing cooling measures such as shaded areas and misting systems. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives will hinge on proper execution, a concern echoed by many worker advocates.
The Challenges Ahead: Uncertainty in Implementation
Despite FIFA’s assurances, there is skepticism about whether these protective measures will adequately shield workers from heat-related dangers. Yareliz Mendez-Zamora, an immigrant rights organiser in Miami, highlighted that even evening matches could pose risks: “Even if the games start after 6pm or after 7pm, here in Miami it can still be dangerously hot during that time.”
Many workers will commence their shifts hours before kick-off, exposing them to the harshest heat of the day, and some may not be acclimated to such conditions. Many of the World Cup roles will be filled by temporary contract workers who are less familiar with local climates, increasing their vulnerability to heat stress.
Moreover, political barriers complicate efforts to ensure worker protections, especially in states like Florida and Texas, where local regulations on heat safety have been curtailed by state laws. This creates a precarious landscape where workers could be left unprotected, entirely at the mercy of their employers.
Why it Matters
As the excitement builds for the 2026 World Cup, it is crucial to remember the human cost behind the spectacle. The workers who make this event possible deserve robust protections against extreme heat. Without adequate measures in place, the tournament could not only be remembered for its thrilling matches but also for the avoidable health crises it inflicted on the very individuals who support it. It is imperative that we advocate for their rights, ensuring that safety and justice are at the forefront of this global event.
