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FIFPro wants to make changes for the 2026 World Cup | Camara La Derecha Diario
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FIFPro demands changes from FIFA for the 2026 World Cup due to the climatic conditions

The players' union is calling for longer halftime breaks, hydration pauses every 15 minutes, and matches to be scheduled outside of midday hours

by

Editorial Team

The global professional footballers' union, known as FIFPro, has filed a formal complaint to FIFA requesting key modifications for the 2026 World Cup, aiming to protect players' health in light of the extreme weather conditions expected at several venues in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

FIFPro's concern arose after the recent Club World Cup held in the United States, where temperatures exceeded 40 °C (104 °F) in some cities. "The Club World Cup experience was a wake-up call. The impact of heat in tournaments of this magnitude can't be ignored," warned Alexander Bielefeld, the union's policy chief.

Blond man with a headset microphone wearing a dark jacket and striped jersey speaking on a stage with a blurred background of athletes.
Alexander Bielefeld emphasizes the extreme heat | La Derecha Diario

Among the main proposals, FIFPro demands:

  • Extending halftime from 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Establishing hydration breaks every 15 minutes.
  • Scheduling matches to avoid peak sun exposure hours, especially midday.

Studies by the union itself indicate that at least 6 of the 16 World Cup venues, including Miami, present an  "extremely high risk"  of heat stress, which increases the danger of injuries, heatstroke, and acute fatigue.

A player wearing the number 20 on his white uniform wipes away sweat with a towel while several members of the coaching staff and players gather around him on the field during a match under the sun.
Temperatures at certain venues are very high | La Derecha Diario

Although FIFA has already implemented measures such as water, cold towels, and shaded areas during the Club World Cup, FIFPro believes that, due to the longer duration and greater demands of the World Cup, stronger policies are needed.

Another factor complicating the organization is the frequent thunderstorms at some U.S. venues, which require matches to be suspended for safety protocol.

Soccer stadium lit up with a cloudy sky and players on the field
Another recurring problem is thunderstorms | La Derecha Diario

Meanwhile, Alexander Phillips, the union's general secretary, confirmed that meetings have already taken place with FIFA  to address these issues, although he admitted that television interests, especially European ones, could influence the final decision.

Despite this, the organization's goal is clear: the World Cup should be a great celebration, but it should also prioritize the health of the players who make it possible.

Short-haired, bearded man wearing a dark jacket and striped jersey, posing in front of a white background
Alexander Phillips confirmed that there were meetings with FIFA | La Derecha Diario
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