FIFA may be forced to make major change to World Cup final days before
Extreme weather conditions have defined the World Cup and they might just get the last laugh ahead of Sunday's final.
The World Cup will reach its conclusion on July 19 as Spain take on Argentina in the final, which is set to be played in New Jersey's MetLife Stadium.
However, officials in New York and New Jersey have been forced to issue an air quality health alert this week due to wildfire smoke from Canada blowing down and covering the area.
More than 800 wildfires are burning across Canada, with a thick haze of smoke now impacting the air quality of 20 states across the USA.
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Officials have called for people to stay indoors to avoid breathing in the fumes, while several outdoor events have been cancelled, such as the opening MLS fixture between Chicago Fire and Vancouver Whitecaps.
Smoke is hanging over New York
The air is expected to clear by Sunday but FIFA may have to take measures to ensure the safety of the players if the conditions have not improved.
National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) side Gotham FC, who play in New York, had their 1-0 win over Washington Spirit disrupted on Wednesday, July 15.
Due to the poor air quality, two breaks had to be taken during each half, as per NWSL protocol.
Washington player Trinity Rodman said after the match: “Air quality was rough.
"Not to make excuses at all, but I think on both sides we were all like, ‘another break, another break, another break.'"
Hydration breaks have already been mandated throughout the World Cup, regardless of the conditions in the stadium, and FIFA may have to add even more breaks during the final if the air quality is not good enough.
LADbible Group has approached FIFA for comment.
It's not just footballers who have to worry about the conditions, though, but the throngs of performers who will be taking part in the World Cup final's first-ever half-time show.
Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira and BTS are all set to star in a performance that could break FIFA's own rules by extending the half-time break beyond 15 minutes.
A large cast of dancers is likely to accompany the musicians, with the father of one dancer who practised at the stadium on Thursday giving an ominous warning about the air.
"She's texting me that it's bad out there," he said.
"It's hard to dance, she says. You can feel the air. It's heavy."
Spain still trained outdoors in New York on Thursday, July 16, while the sun was obstructed by the heavy blanket of smoke. Argentina remained in Atlanta ahead of travelling to New York on Friday.
Statement from New York Governor
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said: “With smoke from Canadian wildfires again impacting air quality throughout our state, we are urging New Yorkers to be ‘air quality aware’ to stay safe this week.
“We continue to coordinate with local counties to monitor conditions and distribute masks to help protect vulnerable populations.
"I encourage all New Yorkers to stay informed about the latest updates and take the necessary precautions to protect yourselves, your neighbours and your loved ones.”
The air quality concerns come at an end of a tournament which has seen several games delayed due to thunderstorms and teams play in soaring heat and humidity.
Spain bested tournament favourites France 2-0 in their semi-final victory, while Argentina came from behind to knock-out England 2-1.
The final is scheduled to kick-off at 8pm BST on Sunday.
Daniel Murphy