Extreme heat is endangering workers involved in the World Cup, as the tournament continues in multiple host cities. On July 10, 2026, reports emerged highlighting the risks faced by stadium staff in Atlanta and other locations, where temperatures have soared dangerously high. While FIFA has implemented hydration breaks for players, workers remain vulnerable without adequate protections.
Health Risks for Workers at the World Cup
Lucia Gambino from Sur Legal Collaborative noted that many workers are experiencing severe heat effects, including redness in the face and dehydration. "It’s just a little bit ironic that FIFA is recognizing that the athletes need water, shade, and breaks to stay safe, but we don’t see that recognized for the workers as well," she stated. The heat index has reached alarming levels, particularly in cities like Atlanta, Miami, and New York.
A recent study published in the journal Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism warned that climate change is exacerbating heat waves, putting workers at greater risk of heat-related illnesses. Many of these individuals may lack acclimatization to the extreme conditions, unlike the athletes who are in peak physical condition.
Challenges in Worker Protection Policies
Andrew Grundstein, a geography professor at the University of Georgia, explained that the complexity of worker employment — with many not directly employed by FIFA — complicates safety measures. Workers may be hired by various contractors, each with differing safety protocols. "It’s a really challenging thing to come up with this uniform heat policy for all the different workers," Grundstein said.
The World Cup’s diverse locations further complicate the situation, as each area has its own regulations concerning worker safety and heat protection. Maggie Morrissey from the Korey Stringer Institute emphasized the need for FIFA to recognize the risks faced by workers and to take action.
FIFA's Response to Heat Concerns
In response to the heat challenges, FIFA has introduced a "tiered heat mitigation model" designed to address worker safety. This includes enhanced cooling measures and adjustments to work-rest cycles based on real-time conditions. A FIFA spokesperson stated, "Work-rest cycles for staff and volunteers are adapted accordingly, and first-aid readiness is reinforced with clear triage and escalation pathways for suspected heat illness."
Despite these measures, concerns remain. During a recent match, Gambino observed workers leaving the stadium drenched in sweat, indicating that the heat was taking a toll. As Atlanta prepares for another World Cup event on July 15, it is essential to strengthen regulations to protect workers and ensure their safety.
- FIFA's hydration breaks for players
- Specific heat index values across host cities
- Potential for increased heat-related illnesses
- Variability in local safety regulations
Gambino advocates for stronger collaborations between FIFA, stadiums, and local organizations to improve worker assistance. She believes that FIFA should include worker protection requirements in agreements with host cities to ensure the safety of all individuals involved in the tournament.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Grist. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
