Argentina continues to be the strongest team in CONMEBOL during the qualifiers, holding a significant lead after the 2022 World Cup. With just two matches left, Argentina sits in first place, ahead of Ecuador by 10 points. Despite this success, head coach Lionel Scaloni has raised concerns about the conditions for the 2026 World Cup, directing his comments to FIFA.
“The heat will be extremely challenging. We saw this at the Club World Cup… matches will likely be scheduled at 3 or 4 PM to accommodate global broadcasts, which greatly affects the players. They are already exhausted after a long season, and it is crucial to consider their well-being by scheduling games at cooler times,” Scaloni stated, as reported by TNT Sports Argentina.
During the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, many players noted the intense heat during games and training. While cooling breaks were included in the schedule, the physical strain was evident. The Argentine national team is familiar with high temperatures, having successfully dealt with similar conditions at the 2024 Copa America, where they won the championship.
FIFPRO, the global organization for players, has criticized the timing of some Club World Cup games. They argue that matches played in temperatures above a Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) of 82.4°F should be postponed for safety reasons. FIFA has set a higher limit of 89.6°F, which FIFPRO contests, particularly with the 2026 World Cup approaching.
Renan Lodi #6 of Al Hilal sprays water on his face during a hydration break during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino announces new 2026 World Cup measure after heat concerns
In light of the heat challenges at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, there has been a push for changes in match schedules. Although Scaloni believes schedules should remain the same, FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced a new strategy for the 2026 World Cup that may significantly influence the event.
“Every criticism we receive helps us identify ways to improve… Cooling breaks are crucial, and we will explore options, but we have stadiums with roofs available and will certainly utilize them during the daytime,” Infantino mentioned in July 2025, as reported by ESPN.
This change appears sensible, yet Chelsea and Fluminense played the semifinals of the 2025 Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium in extreme 96°F heat, a venue lacking a roof. Thus, FIFA may consider using more covered venues in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, and Vancouver for the 2026 World Cup.