FIFA may be forced to break protocol after concerning alert issued days before the World Cup final

FIFA could be forced to make a drastic change days before the World Cup final.

Spain and Argentina will contest the 24th World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey on Sunday (July 19), having overcome France and England in the semi-finals.

And while Luis de la Fuente and Lionel Scaloni will currently be preparing their sides for what promises to be a hugely entertaining affair, FIFA could be forced into making a late change to the match.

This is due to officials in New York and New Jersey issuing an air quality health alert related to recent wildfire smoke, which has covered the area.

Wildfires in Canada have resulted in a haze hanging over the New York region, with officials advising residents to stay indoors if they can – although Spain decided to train outdoors on Thursday (July 16).

Argentina have yet to train in New York but will be put through their paces on Friday (July 17).

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The father of a dancer who practised at the stadium on Thursday has raised his concerns, saying: "She's texting me that it's bad out there.

"It's hard to dance, she says you can feel the air; it's heavy."

Meanwhile, on Wednesday (July 15), Gotham FC and Washington Spirit's National Women's Soccer League fixture was impacted as the air quality index meant two breaks had to be taken during each half in line with NWSL protocol.

“Air quality was rough,” Spirit star Trinity Rodman said after the match. “Not to make excuses at all, but I think on both sides we were all like, ‘another break, another break, another break.’”

Of course, throughout the 2026 World Cup, FIFA have enforced hydration breaks midway through each half regardless of weather conditions.

Amid the concerns over air quality, FIFA could yet be forced to add even more breaks to play in a similar fashion to the NWSL if poor air quality persists.

New York Governor issues statement

New York Governor Kathy Hochul urged residents to stay indoors via the following statement:

“With smoke from Canadian wildfires again impacting air quality throughout our state, we are urging New Yorkers to be ‘air quality aware’ to stay safe this week.

“We continue to coordinate with local counties to monitor conditions and distribute masks to help protect vulnerable populations. I encourage all New Yorkers to stay informed about the latest updates and take the necessary precautions to protect yourselves, your neighbours and your loved ones.”

Chicago Fire's match against the Vancouver Whitecaps was postponed on Thursday due to poor air quality in the Chicago area.

SPORTbible has contacted FIFA for comment