By Wellington Jopelo
England manager Thomas Tuchel has raised new concerns ahead of the 2026 World Cup, warning that the extreme heat across host cities may force him to keep substitutes indoors during matches.
Tuchel said the decision, though unusual, may become necessary to protect players and help them deliver stronger performances when called upon.
He explained that the idea came from observing other teams at the Club World Cup, where heat conditions forced players to remain inside until needed on the pitch.
Tuchel, speaking to BBC Sport on the eve of the World Cup draw in Washington DC, said they would consider the option if it ensures maximum impact from substitutes. He noted that he prefers his players to stay outside to feel the atmosphere but admitted that safety and performance might take priority.
According to BBC Sport, the England coach said, “Nobody likes it because I want the players to be out there to feel the energy and give us energy from the bench on to the field. But I saw players doing this at the Club World Cup. Hopefully we can avoid it.”
The 2026 World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with matches scheduled for June and July. Climate experts have warned of extreme heat, wildfires, and possible hurricane effects, all of which could impact team preparation, fan safety, and stadium workers.
A recent Pitches in Peril report by Football for the Future and Common Goal revealed that 10 out of the 16 World Cup venues face “very high risk” of dangerous heat stress conditions during the tournament period. The issue mirrors complaints from players and coaches during last year’s Club World Cup, where matches were played in harsh temperatures.
Tuchel said the heat would inevitably affect football intensity, reducing both offensive and defensive high-speed runs. He added that teams will have to modify their style of play and prepare differently, as “you cannot play the same football in 45°C as in 21°C.”
He noted that England is already working on heat adaptation strategies, including cooling systems and adjusted training plans, to ensure the team is ready when the competition begins.
Tuchel also addressed the challenge of long-distance travel between venues, describing it as another unavoidable factor teams must prepare for. He said that delays, storms, humidity, and unpredictable conditions would demand more mental readiness from players and staff.
He stressed that the key to success will be accepting the difficulties and adapting quickly, rather than searching for perfect solutions before the tournament begins.
Tuchel concluded that England is focused on preparation, conditioning, and mindset, and the team will be ready to face the unique demands of the 2026 World Cup.