Reece James Urges World Cup Kick-Off Change Amid Heat Fears

Reece James warns of the need for urgent kick-off changes at the 2026 World Cup to protect player safety, after captaining Chelsea to Club World Cup glory in the United States’ extreme summer heat.

Reece James Calls for Later World Cup Kick-Offs

Reece James, Chelsea’s influential captain, has voiced strong concerns to FIFA about the extreme temperatures expected during the 2026 World Cup in North America. Following Chelsea’s Club World Cup triumph in the US, James highlighted the “super difficult” conditions players faced—calling them potentially dangerous—and urged football’s governing body to move kick-offs to cooler evening hours to safeguard both athletes and the spectacle of the game.

Heat Risks Highlighted by Research and Players

Scientific studies support James’ warning. Research from Queen’s University Belfast shows that 14 of the 16 World Cup stadiums across the US could reach or exceed unsafe temperatures for prolonged physical exertion next summer. Chelsea encountered these risks firsthand in Philadelphia, where training took place amid a severe heat warning as temperatures soared to 37°C, with humidity levels making it feel even hotter.

During the Club World Cup final, Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez nearly collapsed on the pitch due to heat and needed medical attention, later describing the experience as “very dangerous” for players and fans alike. “The pace of the game isn’t the same; everything slows down. Hopefully next year they change the schedule so football stays beautiful and exciting,” Fernandez said.

FIFA Considering Kick-Off Adjustments

Responding to these concerns, FIFA is reportedly considering later kick-off times, potentially as late as 23:00 or even 02:00 BST, especially for games involving major European sides. The goal: to avoid the worst of the US afternoon sun while catering to global TV audiences.

James echoed Fernandez’s sentiments, stating, “Later kick-offs when it’s not so hot and humid would definitely help. Playing in that heat is super difficult, especially for those of us coming from England.” Despite the obvious challenges, he revealed that neither FIFA nor tournament organizers have reached out directly to players for feedback yet.

England Squad Prepares for Extreme Conditions

With England already qualified for the tournament, preparations are underway to help players acclimatize. Assistant coach Anthony Barry confirmed that the squad will head to Florida for a warm-weather training camp, with a focus on fitness regimes specifically designed to counteract heat and humidity.

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was moved to winter to mitigate similar heat risks, but the 2026 event, spread across three countries and multiple time zones, presents an unprecedented logistical challenge. Cooling breaks and strategic hydration will be essential, but many believe more robust measures should be in place to protect athlete welfare.

Player Welfare Must Come First

While the excitement for a North American World Cup builds, the issue of player health cannot be overlooked. As James and Fernandez have bravely highlighted, ignoring climatic risks could compromise the quality of football and endanger player wellbeing. FIFA’s willingness to adapt kick-off times will play a crucial role in ensuring the event is both safe and entertaining for fans and players alike.

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Opinion: Time for FIFA to Listen to the Players

In my view, Reece James’ plea is more than justified. Extreme heat not only risks player health, but can diminish the pace and quality of play fans expect at the World Cup. FIFA has an opportunity—and a responsibility—to make bold scheduling changes that put safety and the spectacle first. As history has shown, adapting to new realities isn’t a weakness, but a strength that ensures football remains the world’s game, for all.