World Cup Final on Alert: The Match Could Be Suspended

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, scheduled for this Sunday in New Jersey, is facing an unexpected challenge off the field. Smoke from Canada’s ongoing wildfires has significantly reduced air quality across much of the northeastern United States, raising concerns among health officials, fans, and tournament organizers.

Air quality in New Jersey under close watch

World Cup Final Match Could Be Suspended – Photo: EFE

More than 800 wildfires remain active across Canada, and the resulting smoke has spread into cities including New York and New Jersey. Air pollution levels have ranged from «Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups» to «Hazardous,» depending on the location and time of day.

The primary measure being monitored by authorities is the Air Quality Index (AQI), which tracks the concentration of harmful airborne particles. When AQI levels become elevated, health officials recommend limiting outdoor physical activity, particularly for people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

Is the World Cup final at risk?

PHOTO: EFE

At this time, FIFA has not announced any plans to suspend or postpone the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain.

However, the organization is closely monitoring air quality as meteorological and public health authorities continue tracking AQI levels.

Whether the match proceeds as scheduled will depend on how air pollution levels evolve over the coming hours and on the official assessments conducted before kickoff.

Optimism remains for Sunday

Photo: EFE

Despite the concerns, weather forecasts indicate that rainfall and shifting wind patterns could significantly improve air quality before Sunday by reducing the concentration of wildfire smoke over the New Jersey area.

Meanwhile, Spain’s national team has continued training under smoky conditions in New Jersey, while Argentina has prepared in Georgia, where the effects of the wildfire smoke have been considerably less severe.

With millions of fans eagerly awaiting the championship match, organizers and supporters alike remain hopeful that environmental conditions will improve, allowing the 2026 FIFA World Cup final to be played as scheduled.