The 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina could be threatened by deteriorating air quality in New York and New Jersey, caused by smoke from massive wildfires in Canada, according to infohub.kz.
The decisive match is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. The venue is located in New Jersey, near New York, where smog from Canadian fires has reached in recent days.
According to Reuters, smoke has blanketed the northeastern United States, prompting health advisories in New York and New Jersey. Meteorologists expect rain and shifting winds could improve conditions by Sunday, when the final is to be played.
Air quality issues have already affected preparations. Spain held an outdoor training session in northern New Jersey despite the haze. The Associated Press reported conditions in the training area were considered hazardous due to wildfire smoke.
No official statements have been made about moving the final. However, organizers are monitoring the situation as MetLife Stadium has no roof, meaning air quality could directly affect players and spectators.
Smoke has already impacted other U.S. sporting events: an MLS match between Chicago Fire and Vancouver Whitecaps was postponed due to poor air quality. Against this backdrop, the question of holding the 2026 World Cup final has become a topic of discussion days before the match.
Spain and Argentina will play in the World Cup final. Spain defeated France 2-0 in the semifinals, while Argentina beat England 2-1.