In the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, a critical issue has emerged: the need for enhanced protection against extreme heat. Norwegian midfielder Morten Thorsby, a vocal advocate for climate action in football, has taken a stand by signing a petition urging FIFA to strengthen its heat protocols. This is not just about player safety, but also about the integrity of the sport and the responsibility of FIFA to protect the planet.
Thorsby, who plays for Italian Serie A club Cremonese, is among a group of current and former professional footballers who have written to FIFA, calling for stronger heat protocols. The letter is a response to concerns raised by leading scientists and medical experts, who warn that FIFA's current heat safety measures are inadequate and risk player safety. The issue is particularly pressing given that temperatures at 14 of the 16 stadiums being used could exceed dangerous levels.
In my opinion, the fact that Thorsby and other high-profile players are speaking out is a significant development. It shows that the issue is no longer just about player welfare, but also about the integrity of the sport. Football is an entertainment industry, and the spectacle and show lose their value if players are not able to perform at their best. This is not just a problem for the players, but for everyone involved in the sport.
However, the question remains: why are more players not speaking out? Thorsby acknowledges that players are scared and concerned about the opinions of others, which is an obstacle that needs to be overcome. In my view, football players are the most influential people on the planet, and they have a responsibility to use their platform to advocate for change. If we could gather momentum among players, getting them to speak up about these issues, we could really accelerate the green shift and sustainability within football.
FIFA has said it has enhanced heat protocols for the tournament, including mandatory three-minute cooling breaks in every half of every match, regardless of the conditions. However, the players' letter calls for FIFA to go further, supporting calls from medical experts for stronger protections, including longer cooling breaks and clearer protocols for delaying or postponing games in extreme conditions. In my opinion, FIFA needs to take a more proactive approach to protecting the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers, and staff.
The players' letter also calls on FIFA to take "serious climate action" and drop fossil fuel sponsors. FIFA's global partners include Aramco, the Saudi Arabia state-owned energy company and the world's largest oil company. This partnership raises questions about FIFA's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. In my view, FIFA needs to reconsider its partnerships and take a more proactive approach to reducing its environmental impact.
In conclusion, the 2026 World Cup presents an opportunity for FIFA to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By strengthening its heat protocols and reconsidering its partnerships, FIFA can protect the health and safety of players and contribute to a more sustainable future for football. As a global sport, football has the power to bring people together and promote world peace. It is time for FIFA to step up and lead the way in protecting the planet and ensuring a sustainable future for the sport.
