Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jul 17
FIFA Keeps World Cup Final on Track as New York Air Quality Improves Before Sunday
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jul 17

FIFA Keeps World Cup Final on Track as New York Air Quality Improves Before Sunday

3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jul 17

Summary

  • Sunday's World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium is not under threat, with FIFA unconcerned despite air-quality alerts in New York and New Jersey.
  • Canadian wildfire smoke prompted officials to label air quality "unhealthy for everyone" on Friday after "very unhealthy" conditions Thursday, but the forecast is expected to improve before kickoff.
  • The smoke has already disrupted sport elsewhere: MLS postponed Thursday's Vancouver Whitecaps-Chicago Fire match at Soldier Field because of poor air quality.
  • Weather has repeatedly affected this World Cup, with England-Mexico delayed by 1 hour and France-Iraq halted for more than 2 hours.

Insights

Is FIFA prioritizing its biggest match over player health amid hazardous air quality warnings?
With wildfire smoke threatening the final, should mega-events have mandatory climate safety rules?