It's hot. Maybe too hot.
Politics — 2026-06-13 08:30:00 — www.politico.com
Trump’s Dismissal of Climate Change Risks Clashes with Mounting Evidence Ahead of World Cup
As the world gears up for a major international soccer tournament, the event’s U.S. host is drawing attention not just for the games, but for his skepticism about climate change. The president, who has repeatedly expressed doubt about the reality of global warming, has gone so far as to say that assertions about rising temperatures have been made “by stupid people.” This dismissive stance stands in stark contrast to the scientific consensus and the mounting risks facing players and fans.
Climate Change and the World Cup: A Growing Threat
Heat waves have become a persistent feature of Northern Hemisphere summers, with each one growing hotter and longer due to man-made global warming. The timing and locations of several stadiums across the U.S. and Mexico mean that both players and fans are likely to face dangerous heat during the tournament.
The risks are not limited to temperature alone. Humidity, measured by wet-bulb temperature, can make conditions even more hazardous. Scientists warn that a wet-bulb temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit can be fatal, and even lower levels can impair athletic performance and health. According to recent studies, 26 out of 104 matches are expected to take place in conditions of at least 79 degrees wet-bulb temperature, with five matches projected to exceed the 82-degree threshold that experts say should prompt postponement.
Fact-Checking Trump’s Climate Claims
Despite this evidence, the president continues to downplay the threat of climate change. His assertion that concerns about rising temperatures are made “by stupid people” directly contradicts the findings of climate scientists and recent peer-reviewed studies. These studies show that high temperatures have already affected major sporting events, leading to player exhaustion, changes in tactics, and even medical emergencies, such as the collapse of an assistant referee at the 2024 Copa America and deaths during a heat wave in France.
Conclusion: Science vs. Skepticism
The president’s public dismissal of climate science is increasingly at odds with the reality facing global sporting events. As climate change continues to intensify, organizations like FIFA will be forced to confront these risks head-on, regardless of political rhetoric. The evidence is clear: rising temperatures and extreme weather are not just theoretical concerns—they are already impacting the world’s biggest stages.
Source: https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/06/13/world-cup-2026/heat-waves-humidity-00961300