Reece James Calls for Safer World Cup Kick-Off Times

Reece James has urged FIFA to address player safety by rescheduling World Cup kick-off times to avoid dangerous heat, following Chelsea’s Club World Cup victory in the United States under intense summer conditions.

Reece James Raises Player Welfare Concerns Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Reece James, Chelsea’s captain and England international, has called on FIFA to put player health first at the 2026 World Cup by reviewing kick-off times in North America. Following Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign held in the U.S., James described the searing heat as a major hazard that must not be ignored next summer.

The 25-year-old defender, fresh from leading Chelsea to Club World Cup glory, highlighted the extreme conditions faced during pre-tournament training in Philadelphia. Temperatures soared to 37°C, with humidity levels pushing the perceived temperature even higher to a stifling 45°C. “It’s super difficult conditions to play in that heat, especially for us who play in England — there’s nothing like it,” James emphasized. He pointed out that such circumstances could compromise not only player safety but also the quality of football on display.

Heat Risks Backed by Research

A recent study from Queen’s University Belfast underscored James’s concerns, warning that 14 out of the 16 World Cup venues in North America could reach or surpass heat levels deemed unsafe for sustained physical activity. These findings mirror the experiences of Chelsea’s players, including midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who nearly collapsed from dizziness during a match against Fluminense and required medical attention afterwards.

Fernandez’s comments echoed James’s worries: “Playing in this kind of temperature is very dangerous. For the spectacle and for the people coming to enjoy the game, the pace slows, and football loses its excitement. Hopefully, next year they change the schedule, so football stays beautiful and exciting.”

FIFA’s Approach: Late-Night Kick-Offs Under Discussion

In light of these warnings, FIFA is reportedly considering shifting kick-off times to cooler evening hours for World Cup games in the southern and central U.S. Hosting major European nations at 17:00, 20:00, 23:00, or even 02:00 BST could help avoid the worst of the heat and also cater to a global TV audience. James, however, says he hasn’t yet been contacted for official feedback: “No, I haven’t been asked about my thoughts on kick-off times. I’m sure they will have asked someone. Maybe managers or people at the clubs. I’m sure they will have got some feedback.”

James described adapting to the heat as a challenge: “You feel the heat the minute you step outside the hotel. Once you’re out there, you try to adapt, limit the things you can. The pitches were not the greatest either, which made things harder. Hopefully, by the time the World Cup comes, things will improve.”

England Gears Up for the Heat Challenge

England, having already secured qualification for the tournament with two matches to spare, is taking proactive steps to prepare for the tough climate. Assistant coach Anthony Barry confirmed plans for a warm-weather training camp in Florida, where players will undergo tailored conditioning to build stamina and resilience for the humid, energy-sapping conditions that await.

This focus on adaptation is critical, given the unique challenge of a World Cup spread over three nations and multiple time zones. Unlike the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which was moved to winter to avoid extreme heat, the 2026 edition will still play out during the summer. While cooling breaks are expected to be implemented, experts argue that more comprehensive measures — including altering match schedules — are vital to safeguard player welfare.

Historical Context: Learning from Past Tournaments

World football has grappled with the issue of player safety in extreme temperatures before. The 1994 USA World Cup saw matches played in sweltering midday heat, leading to calls for better planning. The Qatar 2022 World Cup ultimately shifted to late autumn to avoid the worst of the desert sun, prioritizing both player health and the spectacle for fans.

As James and other leaders advocate for reforms, the pressure is on FIFA to ensure that the 2026 World Cup does not repeat past mistakes. Adjusting kick-off times could not only shield players from physical harm but also guarantee that the world’s most-watched football tournament delivers the excitement and quality that fans expect. For more news on this developing story and global football, visit for more news.

Opinion: Player Safety Must Take Precedence

In my view, Reece James’s call for FIFA to rethink World Cup kick-off times is both timely and essential. The health and performance of players should never be compromised for television ratings or logistical convenience. By listening to those on the pitch and prioritizing cooler kick-off times, FIFA can show that it values both the welfare of its athletes and the integrity of the beautiful game.