Soccer-Scorching heat sparks welfare fears at Club World Cup

Jun 15, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Fans look on during the second half between FC Porto and SE Palmeiras during a group stage match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

MIAMI (Reuters) -Soaring temperatures and oppressive humidity at the Club World Cup are fuelling concerns among players, coaches, and fans, with calls for additional cooling breaks and adjustments to match schedules.

Midday kickoff temperatures in Pasadena at the weekend approached 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 Fahrenheit), forcing players in the Paris St Germain v Atletico Madrid match to dig in early as the midday sun blazed on the Rose Bowl's uncovered stands and pitch.