World Cup 2026 streams and bets leave damaging hidden footprint

The environmental debate around the 2026 World Cup has increasingly highlighted travel emissions, but a report cited in the article argues that the digital footprint of modern sport is also creating a “hidden” impact. It says the tournament will be among the most digitally consumed ever, with matches streamed on multiple platforms, real-time statistics, continuous betting updates, and AI-driven highlights and personalized content. Those activities require substantial electricity for servers, data centres, and digital infrastructure. A report from sports consultancy 5 Tool Sports Group, highlighted by sustainability specialist Aileen McManamon, estimates that digital ecosystems around North America’s five major professional leagues consume 11 to 25 terawatt-hours of electricity annually and generate 4.5 million to 14 million metric tonnes of CO2. The article cautions these are industry estimates, not peer-reviewed research. It contrasts this with pre-tournament warnings that the 48-team format and long distances could make it the most carbon-intensive World Cup on record, with travel a dominant share. It concludes by arguing the issue extends beyond transport alone.