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Fossil Free Football say: “Particular concern is for the fixtures in the no-shade stadium in Charlotte where a heat index of 38C (Real Madrid v Pachuca) and 41C (Benfica v Bayern) is forecast for the next two matches.<\/p>\n
“This underlines the dangers facing players and fans at this tournament and in 2026. Fifa have done very little to allay safety concerns.”<\/p>\n
The game between New Zealand part-timers Auckland City and Boca Juniors is also due to take place in 41C in Nashville at a ground with limited cover.<\/p>\n
Matches in Philadelphia, New York, Cincinnati and Washington DC will also be played in the anticipated heatwave.<\/p>\n
After Atletico’s 4-0 defeat by Paris St-Germain<\/a> in 32C in Pasadena, Marcos Llorente said it was “terribly hot” and added “my toes were sore, my nails were hurting… it’s incredible”.<\/p>\n Fans spoke of having to leave that game because of the heat – and complained about long queues and restrictions of water when arriving at the stadium.<\/p>\n A Fifa statement read: “Fifa’s top priority is the health of everyone involved in football, and Fifa’s medical experts have been in regular contact with the clubs participating to address heat management and acclimatisation.”<\/p>\n The governing body added there will continue to be cooling breaks in the 30th and 75th minute where needed – and that fans are allowed to bring empty clear bottles of up to one litre into stadiums.<\/p>\n Chelsea, who are one of two English teams competing along with Manchester City, beat Los Angeles FC in their opener but then lost 3-1 to Flamengo on Friday.<\/a><\/p>\n “It’s not easy because of the temperature,” said boss Enzo Maresca. “We’re going to try to rotate players.” <\/p>\n<\/div>\n