The FIFA Club World Cup 2025, held across the United States, has been marred by concerns regarding player and fan safety due to extreme heat and inadequate access to water, particularly at the iconic Rose Bowl in Pasadena. The tournament, expanded to include 32 teams for the first time, is seen as a precursor to the 2026 World Cup, raising questions about the suitability of North American venues during the summer months.
Several attendees at the Rose Bowl have described the conditions as "dangerous," citing soaring temperatures and a lack of readily available water. The June 15 match between Paris Saint-Germain and Atlético Madrid, which drew over 80,000 fans, was played under intense heat, with temperatures hovering around 32°C (90°F) and humidity at 60%. This created a stifling atmosphere that significantly impacted both players and spectators.
Players openly expressed their discomfort and the challenges posed by the heat. Atlético Madrid's Marcos Llorente described the conditions as "impossible," adding, "It's terribly hot. My toes were sore, my nails were hurting. I couldn't stop or start." His teammate Antoine Griezmann echoed these sentiments, noting that the heat made it much harder to play at their usual level. PSG's midfielder Vitinha, named man of the match, admitted it was "really difficult" and that he was "all red" from the heat. PSG manager Luis Enrique also voiced his frustration, stating that the match was "clearly influenced by the temperature" and that while the scheduling suited European TV audiences, "it takes a toll on the teams."
The concerns extend beyond just the players. Fans have reported long lines for water and limited shade, leading to heat exhaustion and other heat-related issues. The lack of sufficient water stations and the high prices of bottled water inside the venue exacerbated the problem, leaving many attendees feeling unsafe and underserved. Some fans even canceled their plans to attend matches due to the heat and concerns about the potential presence of federal agents, further highlighting the challenges facing the tournament.
FIFA has responded by implementing some measures to help fans cope with the heat, including distributing cardboard fans during the opening match. However, many believe that more comprehensive solutions are needed, such as adjusting match schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day, providing more accessible and affordable water, and increasing shade and cooling zones within the stadiums.
The extreme heat is not an isolated incident. Other matches in the tournament, including those in Miami, have also been played under sweltering conditions. Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. expressed his concerns about playing in the heat, and the opening match between Inter Miami and Al Ahly saw several players visibly affected by the conditions. These issues have prompted discussions about the broader implications of climate change on sports and the need for organizers to prioritize the health and safety of athletes and fans.
As the Club World Cup progresses, the focus remains on how FIFA and the host cities will address these challenges. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, it is crucial that lessons are learned and measures are taken to ensure that future tournaments are safe and enjoyable for everyone involved. The well-being of players and fans must be paramount, and proactive steps must be taken to mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat.
