The FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico is drawing attention not only for its sporting impact but also for the increasing climate risks affecting major football events worldwide.
The tournament is expected to create one of the largest carbon footprints in World Cup history, with millions of tonnes of emissions linked mainly to international travel by teams and fans. The environmental impact has renewed discussions around the future sustainability of football.
Climate-related challenges are already affecting the tournament environment, including extreme heat, storms, flooding, and other weather events that can disrupt matches and impact player and spectator safety.
Environmental groups DanChurchAid and Football for Future are using the global attention around the World Cup to highlight the need for climate adaptation in football infrastructure and communities. Their initiatives focus on protecting sports facilities, improving resilience, and supporting areas where climate change has damaged local playing spaces.
A recent Football for Future report highlighted that several World Cup venues have experienced conditions linked to extreme weather risks, including heat stress, heavy rainfall, and storms. The organisations also pointed to community football projects in regions affected by flooding as examples of how climate adaptation can help preserve access to the sport.
The growing connection between football and climate change is pushing global sports organisations to consider how the game can adapt to a changing environment while reducing its environmental impact.
