DFL: publication of a guide to playing football in hot weather and the risks involved

The Deutsche Fußball Liga has published a guide dedicated to the prevention of heat-related health risks in football, 04/07/2025.

"The issue of how to deal with heat-related health risks is coming up more and more regularly in professional football. This guide aims to raise awareness among all those involved, particularly with regard to the prevention of heat-related health problems and reduced performance. The guide describes the effects of heat and makes recommendations for appropriate management."

"Although excessive exposure to heat is generally rare in German professional leagues, and only a few matches at the start and end of the season are potentially exposed, studies have shown that, under certain conditions, footballers' body temperatures can exceed 40°C during a match. This can be asymptomatic and lead to premature fatigue, but in extreme cases it can cause circulatory problems and even altered consciousness. If these problems are not treated quickly and correctly, they can even lead to potentially fatal heatstroke," explained the DFL.

• This guide is based on a doctoral…