NEW YORK: Authorities in New York and New Jersey have issued an air quality health alert ahead of the FIFA World Cup final after smoke from massive wildfires in Canada drifted into the region, raising concerns about air pollution.
According to international media reports, the smoke has spread across parts of New York and surrounding areas, prompting officials to warn residents about deteriorating air quality before Sunday’s championship match.
The FIFA World Cup final, featuring Argentina and Spain, is scheduled to be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Spain completed its training session at the venue without expressing concerns about the air quality, while Argentina is set to begin its final preparations on Saturday.
Forecasters said the smoky conditions are expected to persist unless stronger winds and rainfall help clear the haze from the region.
Health officials have advised vulnerable groups, including children, older adults and people with respiratory conditions, to limit prolonged outdoor activity while the air quality alert remains in effect.
Meanwhile, FIFA has announced that the winners of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will receive commemorative championship rings in addition to the traditional World Cup trophy and gold medals, marking the first time such an honor has been introduced in the tournament’s history.
According to FIFA, the move is inspired by the long-standing championship ring tradition in American sports. A total of 2,026 specially designed rings will be produced to commemorate the 2026 World Cup.
Of those, 30 rings will be reserved for the winning team’s players and officials, while the remaining 1,996 rings will be sold worldwide as officially licensed collectibles for football fans.
Each ring will feature the FIFA World Cup Trophy on one side and the identity of the champion team on the other. Every ring will carry a unique serial number, a certificate of authenticity and, for players and officials, a custom size.
FIFA said the winning team’s captain and head coach will receive temporary commemorative rings immediately after the final, while the permanent championship rings will be formally presented to all eligible members of the victorious team at a later ceremony.
More read, Argentina storms back to beat England, reaches World Cup final
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is scheduled to be played on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, where Spain will face Argentina for the title.
