The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is predicted to be the most environmentally damaging tournament in its 95-year history, according to a new scientific report.
A Challenging Climate Forecast
A recent report by Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR) suggests the 2026 FIFA World Cup will generate an unprecedented amount of greenhouse gas emissions. They estimate the tournament will produce nine million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e).
This figure is nearly double the average emissions from the last four World Cups. It also significantly surpasses the 5.25 million tons of CO2e produced during the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
Why the Expected Increase?
Several factors contribute to this grim forecast. The expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams means a higher quantity of matches. Additionally, the event will be hosted across three large nations – the United States, Canada, and Mexico – requiring extensive air travel for teams, staff, and fans.
SGR highlighted that this reliance on air travel across vast distances is a primary driver of the expected increase in emissions. The report was compiled in collaboration with the Sport for Climate Action Network and the Environmental Defence Fund.
FIFA’s Environmental Pledges Under Scrutiny
FIFA has publicly committed to reducing its emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving net-zero status by 2040. The organization has previously stated its efforts to mitigate environmental impact, including assessing emissions, reducing waste, and promoting green building standards for stadiums.
However, FIFA’s past environmental claims have faced criticism. In 2023, a Swiss regulator challenged the football body for making unsubstantiated claims regarding its sustainability efforts.
Original Estimates vs. New Reality
The initial bid by the host nations for the 2026 World Cup projected emissions of 3.6 million tons of CO2e. This estimate, however, was based on a smaller tournament plan of 80 games.
The subsequent decision to expand the World Cup to include 48 teams and more matches dramatically altered the environmental footprint, making the original figures obsolete.
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup is projected to generate nine million tons of CO2e.
- This is nearly double the average of the last four World Cups and significantly more than the 2022 Qatar tournament.
- The increase is largely due to more teams, more matches, and extensive air travel across three host countries.
- FIFA’s environmental commitments have previously been questioned by regulators.
The report underscores the growing challenge of balancing large-scale international sporting events with global climate goals.
