Infantino evaluates changing World Cup dates due to heat: Goodbye to summer?

FIFA Considers Modifying the World Cup Calendar from 2030

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has opened the door to the possibility of modifying the World Cup schedule from 2030 onwards. The initiative seeks to adapt to the high temperatures affecting several venues during the boreal summer. During his speech at the European Football Clubs (EFC) assembly in Rome, Infantino explained that FIFA is evaluating calendar alternatives, similar to what was implemented in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which was played between November and December due to extreme weather conditions.

“It seems quite obvious for the World Cup, but it can’t be played in some places in summer, so we might have to change the calendar”, Infantino pointed out.

Gianni Infantino

The Swiss leader added that this reflection is not limited to a single tournament, but is part of a global assessment of the future organization of international football. “Even playing in some European countries in July is very hot, so perhaps we should reflect on this. There are ways to optimize the calendar, but we are discussing it and we will see when we reach a conclusion. We just have to be open-minded,” he added.

Nasser Al-Khelaifi’s Support

Nasser Al-Khelaifi, president of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the EFC, supported the idea of discussing the possible change of dates. However, he emphasized the need for consensus among all parties involved before making a final decision.

“It’s an important issue to say something for sure right now. We want all the actors to participate in the development of the calendar. We don’t have to be afraid of changes if they are for the better,” commented Al-Khelaifi.

Nasser Al-Khelaifi

The Qatari executive stressed that the modification will require the active participation of players, coaches and clubs, who are the main protagonists of the competitive calendar. FIFA has not yet set a deadline to make a decision, but the proposal opens the debate on the restructuring of major international tournaments based on global climatic conditions and the demands of the modern football calendar.