Climate & heat risk stories

Jun 11, 2026

2026 FIFA World Cup breaks records for size and carbon emissions as 48-team tournament spans three countries

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring a record 48 teams across 104 matches in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is generating unprecedented carbon emissions estimated between 3.7 and 9 million tons of CO2. The expanded tournament format and tri-national hosting arrangement require extensive travel by teams and fans, creating what analysts call the highest climate impact in World Cup history.

Jun 11, 20268 sources

Extreme heat and severe weather pose health risks as 2026 World Cup begins across North America

The 2026 FIFA World Cup faces significant weather challenges as matches begin across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with heat advisories issued on both U.S. coasts, thunderstorm threats in multiple venues, and public health officials monitoring heat-related illnesses and disease outbreaks among the 48 competing teams and spectators.

Jun 11, 20268 sources