World Cup finals in jeopardy? Fire haze engulfs New Jersey as Spain trains in toxic smoke

The Statue of Liberty stands at sunset as smoke from wildfires fills the sky Thursday. (AP photo) The build-up to Sunday’s World Cup final between Argentina and Spain has been overshadowed by an unexpected opponent – a thick haze from wildfires drifting south from Canada, prompting air quality warnings in New York and New Jersey and raising questions about whether soccer’s biggest game could face weather-related disruption.After a tournament repeatedly interrupted by thunderstorms, lightning delays and inclement weather, concerns have now shifted from rain to smoke, with Canadian wildfires blanketing much of the northeastern United States in a thick haze.Authorities in both New York and New Jersey issued health advisories after air quality reached unhealthy and at times “very unhealthy” levels. The New York Office of Emergency Management urged residents to avoid being outside for more than an hour because the smoke reduces visibility and increases health risks.The World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday at the New Jersey Open Stadium in East Rutherford, where organizers are keeping a close eye on the conditions.Despite the alarming scenes, forecasts suggest an improvement in the weather, along with expected rainfall on Saturday, should clear much of the smoke ahead of kick-off, meaning the final is currently expected to go ahead as planned.

Spain train outside despite dangerous air

Spain’s preparations continued in smoky conditions after the European champions arrived in New Jersey on Wednesday night following their semi-final win over France.According to an AP report, Luis de la Fuente’s team trained outside in eastern Hanover on Thursday, even as a haze obscured the sun and the air quality ranged between “unhealthy” and “hazardous”. Members of the media were only allowed to watch the opening 15 minutes of the session, making it difficult to judge the intensity of the training session.Argentina, meanwhile, remained in the Atlanta area after defeating England in the semi-finals. The defending champions avoided the worst of the smoke as Georgia lies south of the affected region. Lionel Messi’s team is expected to begin training in New Jersey on Friday.Medical experts questioned the wisdom of outdoor sessions under such conditions.

Smoke adds another challenge before the showpiece finale

Smoke from wildfires has become a growing environmental problem in North America, with scientists linking longer and more intense fire seasons to a warming climate.Experts say smoke contains thousands of potentially harmful compounds capable of affecting the lungs, heart and immune system. Even healthy people can experience irritation and breathing difficulties after prolonged exposure, while strenuous exercise significantly increases the amount of polluted air inhaled.Deteriorating air quality has already affected sports in the region. The National Women’s Soccer League match between Gotham FC and the Washington Spirit continued in nearby Queens on Wednesday, but the players had to take two more timeouts in each half due to smoky conditions.However, there is growing optimism at FIFA that Sunday’s final will escape disruption. Air quality forecasts from the US Environmental Protection Agency predict match day conditions will improve to “moderate”, allaying fears that the match between Argentina and Spain could become the latest World Cup match affected by extreme weather.