2026 World Cup: Tournament Sends ‘Destructive Message’ on Climate

David Whereler, former Wycombe Wanderers Midfielder and one of the most vocal advocates of the environment, sees climate change as “more and more obvious to the players and more of a topic of conversation”.

The Wheleler, who is the footballers’ professional champation

“Unfortunately I don’t think the main governing bodies and organizations have really taken that responsibility at the moment,” he said.

“These organizations do not deserve the income from the sport if they do not use their power for the development of the sport.”

Wheeler also wants players to use their platform to speak out on environmental issues.

“It’s going to have a big impact,” he said. “But it is also important that the clubs and fans’ groups also insult the players because there will be an inevitable backlash that they are hypocrites.

“Most of us are hypocrites to some degree. We’re not perfect and that’s okay, as long as we want to do the best we can.”

One player who has not been shy about using his platform in the Champions Envenity Issue is the real betis Hector Bellerin.

Speaking after he was named Global Champion at the recent BBC Green Sport Awards, he said it is not easy to develop sustainability globally.

“It’s difficult,” he said, referring to the 2026 world cup. “I don’t make decisions and I know how the industry works. But I won’t stop doing what I love because of decisions made at the top.

“We players always feel like we are treated like numbers or merchandise. There are more games, more situations.

“Unless footballers around the world come together – whether that means stopping or taking bold decisions – the wheel will keep turning,” he said.