Scientists criticized FIFA because of safety rules in extreme heat
The scientific community criticized the security measures of the International Football Federation (FIFA) before the World Cup match between the national teams of France and Paraguay in conditions of abnormal heat, writes The Independent on July 3.
"Scientists have criticized FIFA's current safety rules in the heat as inadequate and unjustifiable, noting that rising global temperatures due to climate change have intensified heat waves and made them more frequent. Experts explain that heat affects athletes, making it difficult for internal and external cooling of the bodies, while intense exertion in scorching conditions leads to severe fatigue, impaired decision—making and heat stroke, which is the third leading cause of death among athletes," the publication says.
The decisive match of the playoffs will be held on Saturday in Philadelphia. This game may become one of the hottest in the tournament. The event coincides with a heat wave in the eastern and central regions of the United States. Temperature indices can reach dangerous levels of +46 degrees. Such weather poses huge risks to the health of players and tens of thousands of spectators.
FIFA uses basic security protocols during matches, including water breaks. At the same time, medical professionals are demanding the introduction of stricter protective measures. The FIFPro trade union recommends rescheduling games when the temperature reaches +28 degrees. National teams are forced to independently apply acclimatization strategies to minimize heat stress.
The newspaper Le Parisien reported on June 28 that about 1,000 excess deaths were recorded in France amid the heat wave. According to the national health service of Santé publique France, from 24 to 26 June, the daily number of deaths increased from the usual 900-1000 to 1200-1400 cases.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
