With just a week until the 2026 World Cup kicks off, scientists are raising concerns about player safety in extreme heat. Dr Oliver Gibson of Brunel University has joined colleagues in writing to Fifa, urging a review of heat mitigation measures for players and referees. The tournament is expected to be one of the hottest ever, posing serious risks of heatstroke.
Beyond the heat, the environmental impact of the World Cup is under scrutiny. The tournament's massive fossil-fuel footprint has drawn criticism from climate scientists, who highlight the contradiction of hosting a global sporting event while the world faces a climate crisis.
Meanwhile, the psychology of VAR continues to fascinate researchers. The technology, designed to reduce refereeing errors, has instead altered the decision-making process and fan experience. Studies suggest VAR can increase anxiety for referees and create new tensions among supporters.
These topics are explored in a new podcast episode featuring Madeleine Finlay and Ian Sample, who delve into the science behind the World Cup. The episode also touches on the broader issue of 'sports washing' and how major tournaments are used to distract from human rights and environmental concerns.
