Experts warn that the 2026 World Cup will generate between five and nine million tonnes of CO2, far exceeding previous tournaments. The increase is driven by an expanded 48 team format and the vast geographical distances between host cities in the US, Canada, and Mexico. While existing stadiums reduce construction emissions, the massive surge in air travel for fans and teams creates a significant environmental burden. This trend highlights the conflict between the growth of mega sporting events and global decarbonization goals.
