Why climate experts are urging FIFA and popstars to discount tickets

Climate experts say major sporting and music events need to rethink how they handle emissions, arguing that audience travel is the dominant source. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is projected to generate about 4.23 million tonnes of carbon emissions, with roughly three million tonnes expected from fans flying to matches across North America. Researchers at the University of Cambridge analyzed Coldplay’s 2024 European tour and compared it with 2026 World Cup projections, finding spectator travel drove 97% of emissions from the concerts and 82% of the tournament’s projected carbon footprint. The study suggests organizers should reward lower-carbon transport choices rather than relying mainly on carbon offsets. It also notes Coldplay’s emissions cuts largely came from audience behavior, not venue hardware.