The FIFA Club World Cup 2025, hosted across 11 cities in the United States from June 14 to July 13, is facing an unexpected challenge: a severe heat dome blanketing the central and eastern regions of the country. This high-pressure system has brought record-breaking temperatures, soaring humidity, and extreme heat warnings, impacting players, fans, and the overall tournament experience.
The heat dome, which settled over the US around June 20, has caused temperatures to skyrocket, with many areas experiencing highs nearing or surpassing 100°F (37.7°C). The combination of extreme heat and high humidity has resulted in oppressive conditions, significantly increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke for both athletes and spectators. The National Weather Service has issued "extreme risk" temperature forecasts for several states, including those hosting Club World Cup matches, with heat index values exceeding 105°F.
Several players have voiced concerns about the impact of the heat on their performance. Atlético Madrid's Marcos Llorente described the conditions as "impossible" after a match against Paris Saint-Germain, noting that even basic movements were difficult. The intense heat has forced teams to adjust their training schedules, with Chelsea shortening a practice session in Philadelphia due to the extreme conditions. Cooling breaks have been implemented during matches around the 30th and 75th minutes to allow players to rehydrate and cool down, following FIFA guidelines that mandate breaks when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature reaches 89.6 degrees.
The stifling heat has also affected fans attending the matches. Spectators have been seen seeking shade, with some even going shirtless to cope with the high temperatures. Medical personnel have been deployed around stadiums to assist fans experiencing heat-related symptoms. Some stadiums have opened their concourses during halftime and cooling breaks to provide a respite from the sun.
The extreme weather conditions have raised concerns about the scheduling of matches, with some games taking place during the hottest parts of the day to accommodate European TV audiences. This has led to complaints about the potential impact on player performance and safety. The situation has prompted calls for FIFA to implement more effective heat management strategies, including scheduling fixtures outside peak heat hours.
The current heatwave and its effects on the Club World Cup may serve as a preview for the challenges that lie ahead for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With climate change expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heat waves, FIFA will need to develop comprehensive strategies to mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat and ensure the safety and well-being of players and fans.
