The 2026 FIFA World Cup could become the most climate-polluting tournament in football history.

With 48 teams competing across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, experts project the expanded tournament could generate roughly 9 million tons of climate pollution — nearly double the average emissions of recent World Cups. Much of the increase comes from expanded air travel and the tournament’s massive geographic footprint.

At the same time, climate-fueled extreme heat is raising serious concerns for players and fans. Climate experts and player advocates warn that several host cities could face dangerous heat conditions during matches.

Football is the world’s game. FIFA should be leading on climate action — not making the crisis worse.

Instead, FIFA continues expanding tournaments while maintaining sponsorship ties with the Saudi state-owned fossil fuel giant Aramco and promoting climate commitments critics have called misleading or inadequate.

Fans deserve better.

We’re calling on FIFA President Gianni Infantino to:

• Publish a transparent climate plan for the 2026 World Cup;

• End partnerships that support fossil fuel expansion;

• Invest in cleaner transportation and sustainable infrastructure;

• Protect players and fans from dangerous extreme heat;

• Adopt stronger climate standards for future tournaments.

Climate change is already reshaping the future of sports. FIFA must decide whether it will be part of the problem — or part of the solution.

Tell FIFA: the future of football depends on climate action now.

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Sources:

The Guardian | ‘Green card for the planet’? Fifa’s World Cup is on pace to be a climate catastrophe

Associated Press | How climate change could force FIFA to rethink the World Cup calendar

Scientists for Global Responsibility | 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup to be most polluting everScientists for Global Responsibility | 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup to be most polluting ever