Alcohol and Heat: Risks for Soccer Fans During Summer Events
On a recent Saturday morning, The Greyhound Bar & Grill in Los Angeles was bustling with soccer enthusiasts. The patrons, with eyes glued to TV screens, cheered as Paris Saint-Germain faced Arsenal in the Champions League final. By 9:20 a.m., they had bought $1,300 in alcohol. Madeline Guillen, 28, enjoyed a mimosa with friends, stating, “It’s just a better vibe when you’re a little buzzed. That’s a big thing about sports. I think sports and drinking go hand-in-hand.”
Drinking alcohol while watching sports is common worldwide. This summer, millions will do so during the FIFA World Cup in Mexico, Canada, and the United States. Yet, experts warn that mixing alcohol with extreme heat poses risks, particularly for those who drink excessively without staying hydrated or cool. Here’s what to know about the intersection of extreme heat and alcohol, plus tips for safe drinking.
Sports, Summer, and Alcohol
Climate change, fueled by burning fossil fuels, increases deadly heat, especially in summer. Researchers express concerns about heat stress for soccer players and fans during games. Heat affects drinking habits and hospital visit rates. Studies show alcohol consumption spikes in summer, and people in hotter climates more often binge drink. According to Nathan Morris, assistant professor at the University of Colorado, people may drink to ease discomfort from heat, which can lead to heat stress.
Research links heavy drinking to sports viewing. An Australian study reported fans averaged five drinks in over two hours while watching games. A 2023 study found higher temperatures led to more alcohol-related hospital visits in New York.
Combining Heat and Alcohol: A Risky Mix
Heat exhaustion results from losing too much water and salt due to sweating. If the body can’t cool down, heat stroke can occur, causing confusion, loss of consciousness, or death. High humidity conditions—as in Miami, Houston, and Monterrey—make sweat evaporation harder.
Alcohol affects the central nervous system, altering thoughts, feelings, and movements. Drinking can lead to headaches, vomiting, dizziness, and increased urination. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that combining hot days with alcohol-induced fluid loss can lead to dehydration, intensifying drinking effects.
Alcohol reduces sunburn thresholds and makes people less likely to wear sunscreen. Dr. Lorenzo Leggio from the NIH notes that hot weather, crowds, and excessive drinking increase fluid loss. Combining high temperatures and alcohol can amplify symptoms like thirst, headaches, and dizziness.
Fabiano Amorim from the University of New Mexico studied the effects of alcohol in hot environments. His results show alcohol affects health markers like blood pressure and heart rate. These findings are relevant to World Cup fans exposed to sun and limited airflow for hours. Drinking accumulates effects and poses risks to the elderly and those with chronic health issues.
Safe Drinking Strategies in Hot Weather
Dr. Leggio advises abstaining from alcohol to mitigate risks. If drinking, eat a meal first, drink water, choose low-alcohol drinks, and drink in moderation. Nathan Morris suggests using sunscreen, wearing hats, and having cold non-alcoholic drinks ready. A buddy can assist if feeling unwell, as buddy systems help manage heat stress effectively.
Amorim advises seeking shade, which reduces heat stress significantly, and applying water on skin aids cooling. Eating cold treats like slushies and popsicles is helpful. Leggio emphasizes recognizing body signals: dizziness, confusion, and blurred vision signal the need for immediate help. Medical staff will be available at stadiums and Fan Festivals.
Daniel Tran, 41, relaxed with a cold beer while supporting Arsenal. Planning to attend several World Cup events in Los Angeles, he intends to stay hydrated and pace drinking during hot days. With 104 games to enjoy, spectators must manage alcohol consumption thoughtfully.
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