*This content was translated by AI.
An unexpected variable has emerged ahead of the 2026 FIFA North American Cup final.
Reuters reported on the 17th (Korean time) that "smoke from wildfires in Canada has covered most of the northeastern United States, prompting air quality alerts."
It further explained that "a cold front is expected to pass through this coming weekend, and much of the hazardous haze should clear before the World Cup final. However, experts warned that if hazy skies and hot weather persist through the weekend, it could create a difficult environment for players participating in the final."
Argentina and Spain will face each other in the 2026 FIFA North American Cup final on the morning of the 20th at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States.
However, with only three days remaining until the final, smoke from Canadian wildfires has spread to the New York and New Jersey areas, causing air quality to deteriorate sharply. Concerns are also growing regarding the health of players and spectators.
According to reports, New York City began experiencing the effects of wildfire smoke starting this week. Local authorities issued alerts and advised residents to reduce strenuous outdoor activities. They also recommended taking more frequent breaks than usual when staying outdoors.
The North American Cup final could also be affected. There are concerns about the health of players from Argentina and Spain, who will compete at the open-air MetLife Stadium, as well as fans visiting the venue.
Reuters stated that "more than 80,000 spectators are expected to attend the North American Cup final, while approximately 50,000 people are projected to watch the match from Central Park in Manhattan, New York."
It further noted that "such conditions could pose health risks to players," adding that "experts emphasized the need for adequate hydration and strict temperature management for athletes."
Dr. Vin Gupta, a member of the board of directors at the American Lung Association and a specialist in pulmonary medicine, told Reuters that "air quality is very poor, and the weather is also hot. This could place extreme strain on the heart." He added, "This could be a powerful and dangerous double blow to the human body. It is critically important for players to keep their core body temperature as low as possible."
He advised spectators with health issues to wear masks at the stadium or, in severe cases, consider reselling their tickets.
Dr. Gupta stated that "for anyone whose immune system is weakened for any reason, they should consider watching the match from home instead of attending the stadium." He further mentioned, "If air quality is expected to be poor on Sunday, selling tickets may be an option if feasible."
Fortunately, heavy rain is expected before the final takes place. When it rains, much of the smoke covering New York and New Jersey is expected to dissipate.
Alex Dasilva, a meteorologist at AccuWeather, said, "Heavy rain is forecast for Saturday, which should clear much of the smoke." He added, "A cold front will pass through on Sunday morning, likely pushing out most of the remaining smoke."
He also noted that "as the weekend approaches, some of the smoke covering this area is expected to disperse."
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*This content was translated by AI.
