At the UN climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, athletes gathered to discuss the significant threats climate change poses to sports, with triathlete Pragnya Mohan warning that triathlons could become nonviable if current trends continue.

While athletes can raise awareness about climate issues, experts like Leslie Mabon emphasize that transformative actions often need to come from outside the highest levels of sports governance.

These challenges were echoed by American discus thrower Sam Mattis, who experienced dangerous temperatures reaching 44°C (111°F) during the 2021 U.S. Olympic trials, leading to health crises among participants.

In response to these climate challenges, sports organizations are adjusting by changing event locations and start times, although reliance on technological solutions like air-conditioned stadiums raises sustainability concerns.

Amidst these challenges, women soccer players globally have urged FIFA to terminate its sponsorship deal with Saudi Arabia's Aramco, citing concerns over human rights abuses and the fossil fuel industry's impact on climate change.

FIFA's commitment to climate action has come under scrutiny, particularly following its controversial sponsorship deals and perceived inaction on climate and human rights issues during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Mohan, who has relocated her training to the UK due to extreme summer heat in India, exemplifies the challenges athletes face as they adapt to increasingly harsh weather conditions.

New Zealand soccer player Katie Rood also highlighted the difficulties posed by extreme temperatures, noting her training in heat chambers to prepare for the Tokyo Olympics.

Jessica Murfree pointed out that the rising costs associated with climate change, including increased travel for training and competition, are exacerbating socioeconomic disparities in sports.

Former elite runner Tina Muir warned that the pressure to perform under extreme conditions could lead to long-term health issues for athletes.

In contrast, major soccer clubs like Real Betis are forming alliances to combat climate change, recognizing their global influence and responsibility to motivate fans to take climate action.