The 2025 Club World Cup, hosted in the United States, has faced a significant challenge: the unpredictable and often extreme weather conditions of the American summer. From stifling heat and oppressive humidity to sudden thunderstorms and the looming threat of lightning, the tournament has been at the mercy of the elements, impacting players, fans, and the schedule itself.
Initially, concerns centered on the soaring temperatures and humidity, particularly during midday matches. Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira noted that his team would battle not only their opponent but also the weather. These concerns were quickly validated as several matches were played in temperatures nearing 90°F (32°C), with even higher heat indexes due to humidity. Players visibly struggled, and some fans even left matches due to the extreme heat, complaining about long queues and restrictions of water at the stadium. Marcos Llorente, after Atletico's 4-0 defeat by Paris St-Germain in Pasadena, described the conditions as "terribly hot".
However, the most disruptive force has proven to be the frequent thunderstorms and the danger of lightning strikes. FIFA has weather protocols in place that automatically suspend a match if lightning is detected within 10 miles (16.09 km) of the stadium. This has led to several matches being halted, sometimes for extended periods, as players retreat to the tunnels and fans seek shelter in the stadium concourses.
Four matches have already been significantly affected by adverse weather. The match between Benfica and Auckland City in Orlando was suspended for nearly two hours due to a severe lightning storm. Similarly, the game between Palmeiras and Al Ahly in New Jersey was halted for approximately 50 minutes. Earlier in the tournament, a match between Ulsan HD and Mamelodi Sundowns was delayed for over an hour, while Red Bull Salzburg's clash with Pachuca experienced an interruption of more than 90 minutes due to a severe thunderstorm.
These weather-related disruptions pose logistical and competitive challenges. Teams must adjust their strategies and maintain their focus during prolonged delays. As Al Ahly manager Jose Riveiro pointed out after his team's match against Palmeiras, it wasn't easy to get back into the rhythm of the game after a weather stoppage.
The prevalence of lightning-related delays is a hallmark of American summers, particularly in states like Florida and Texas, sometimes referred to as the U.S.'s "lightning capitals." Experts suggest that climate change could further increase lightning strikes across the country, raising concerns for future events.
FIFA's decision to host the 2026 World Cup in North America, with matches in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, means that the organization will need to address these climatic realities. While the heat issues are reminiscent of those that led to the first winter World Cup in Qatar, the threat of lightning presents a unique challenge that requires careful planning and robust safety measures.
Despite the weather challenges, FIFA maintains that the health of everyone involved in football is their top priority. They assert that medical experts are in regular contact with participating clubs to address heat management and acclimatization. However, some critics argue that FIFA has done too little to allay safety concerns, particularly regarding matches scheduled in stadiums with limited shade during heatwaves.
