Kansas City faced unusually severe heat on a recent Saturday, necessitating a significant alteration to sports scheduling. The NWSL decided to delay the match between the Kansas City Current and the Orlando Pride due to dangerously high temperatures, which originally had a 3 p.m. kickoff time, and were pushed back to 6:28 p.m.

The league implemented this policy focusing on player safety amid extreme conditions, recalling a rare instance where such regulations were necessary. Detailed assessments using real-time weather analytics guided the decision-making process, leading to consultation with operational staff before kickoff.

What is the NWSL’s Extreme Heat Rule?

The NWSL mandates that if temperatures reach above 90°F and alerts are issued, specific protocols must be followed, including continuous monitoring of heat parameters before and during the match. In instances where readings suggest unsafe conditions, the match may be delayed or potentially cancelled.

Previous Instances of Heat Policies in Soccer

While the MLS has had a similar policy for years, it has rarely invoked such rules, although there were recent instances where kickoff times were adjusted due to extreme heat. On the other hand, major events like the FIFA Club World Cup have operated despite similarly high temperatures.

Responses to the Extreme Delay

The wait drew diverse reactions from the teams, with players from the Orlando Pride engaging in light-hearted TikTok dances while Captain LaBonta addressed fans at the stadium. Confusion over communication regarding the delay was expressed by Pride’s head coach, highlighting the challenge of decision-making under such heat.

“It’s brutal: Three o’clock, the sun’s beaming… so we have to consider every person’s safety,” said Hines, illustrating the struggle that extreme weather poses in sporting events.

Overall, the situation depicted how the NWSL navigates the intersection of player safety and scheduling in extreme conditions.