The FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina on Sunday could be extended to nearly three hours due to an air quality health alert and a planned extended half-time show. Officials in New York and New Jersey issued an air quality health alert because of smoke from Canadian wildfires, which has blanketed the region and already affected other sporting events.
Air Quality Concerns and Impact on Matches
The air quality index (AQI) in the New York area has reached unhealthy levels. On Wednesday, an NWSL match between Gotham FC and Washington Spirit at Citi Field in Queens proceeded despite an AQI reading of 171, which is considered "unhealthy" by the US government. Under NWSL policy, an AQI between 150 and 180 mandates two hydration breaks per half. Washington Spirit's Trinity Rodman criticized the decision, stating, "If we have to have a hydration break every 15 minutes, then we shouldn’t be playing the game."
On Thursday, the MLS match between Chicago Fire and Vancouver Whitecaps was postponed due to poor air quality in Chicago. Former Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski was set to make his debut for Chicago.
Potential Impact on the World Cup Final
Spain trained outdoors on Thursday after arriving in New Jersey, and Argentina is scheduled to train on Friday. There is no indication that either team has been affected yet. However, if the AQI remains high, FIFA may be forced to implement two breaks per half at the 80,000-seat New York New Jersey Stadium. This would add time to an already extended match.
FIFA is also planning a Super Bowl-style half-time show for the final, which broadcasters ITV and the BBC expect to last around 30 minutes, according to the Times. This exceeds the 15-minute maximum allowed under the Laws of the Game, set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). FIFA ignored this restriction last year during the Club World Cup final in the US, which had a 25-minute interval.
Match Duration Could Approach Three Hours
A standard match with half-time takes about 105 minutes. With two hydration breaks per half and a 30-minute interval, the final could last approximately 132 minutes. If the match goes to extra time and penalties, it could edge towards three hours. Fans and players alike are concerned about the potential impact on player welfare and the spectacle of the game.
