Spain conducted practice sessions outdoors under dangerous conditions leading up to the World Cup final against Argentina, despite expert recommendations advocating for indoor training due to the pervasive wildfire smoke affecting large areas of the U.S.
The team, managed by Luis de la Fuente, held their regular training session in East Hanover, New Jersey, after securing their spot in the final by defeating France on Tuesday.
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Midfielder Mikel Merino acknowledged being able to see and smell the smoke from the Canadian wildfires but emphasized the necessity of focusing on the game.
“For a match as significant as the World Cup final, you must do your best to disregard external distractions,” Merino remarked on Friday. “Fortunately, we are taking every precaution thanks to the federation and World Cup organizers.”
Mikel Merino is focused on the final despite external factors (Getty)
Inquiries made to FIFA and the Spanish Football Association regarding the possibility of indoor training have not been responded to as of publication.
The impact of the smoke on the final remains uncertain.
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The World Health Organization has projected that air quality in East Rutherford will improve to a “moderate” level.
While air quality showed signs of improvement on Friday, uncertainties loom due to forecasts predicting up to 1.25 inches (3.17 centimeters) of rain on Saturday.
Wildfire smoke has created hazy conditions across parts of the U.S. (AFP/Getty)
“Additionally, it appears that another smoky air mass may follow that system, but it’s still uncertain how much it will affect New York or New Jersey come Sunday,” noted Mark Parrington, a senior scientist at the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service.
“If fire intensity increases again on Saturday, we could see more smoke enter the atmosphere following the rain.”
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Wildfire smoke—intensifying across North America as temperatures rise—poses health risks, leading to thousands of deaths annually, according to various medical studies.
It can trigger immediate health issues, leading to spikes in asthma cases and emergency response calls within hours.
The smoke causes inflammation throughout the body, typically worsening conditions in those already vulnerable, potentially resulting in various immune responses to this irritant, as described by healthcare professionals.
As a general guideline, Parrington advises limiting outdoor activities when the air is polluted.
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“Respiratory and cardiovascular problems, particularly for individuals with asthma, are of great concern,” Parrington emphasized. “They will inevitably feel the negative effects.”
President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with FIFA President Gianni Infantino later on Friday.
According to Sky Sports, White House officials plan to discuss with Infantino the potential health implications of the smoke.
Approximately 80,000 fans are expected to attend the final, which will take place in a large open-air stadium, home to the NFL’s New York Giants and Jets.