How is UK heatwave impacting sport for players and fans?

An unprecedented heatwave is beginning in the UK, with the June temperature record almost certainly set to be broken over the next few days. The current record of 35.6°C, set in 1976, is expected to be surpassed as meteorologists forecast temperatures as high as 38–39°C in some parts of the country. The Met Office has issued a rare red warning for extreme heat for sections of England and Wales from 09:00 BST on Wednesday until 21:00 on Thursday. The red warning area includes London, Cardiff, the south west and south east, the Midlands, and the east of England. The North West, North East, and Yorkshire are subject to an amber warning.

Two major tennis events are taking place this week: qualifying for the main draw at Wimbledon and the Eastbourne Open. The ATP has introduced an extreme heat rule from the 2026 season, allowing players a 10-minute cooling break during best-of-three-sets singles matches. This rule is based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), which measures heat stress in direct sunlight. If the WBGT reaches 30.1°C or higher during the first two sets, either player can request a break. Play will be suspended if the WBGT exceeds 32.2°C. The WTA has enforced an extreme heat rule for over 30 years. The new ATP rules were introduced after an incident at the Shanghai Masters in October, where temperatures reached 34°C and humidity 80%; Danish player Holger Rune asked an official: "Do you want a player to die on court?" The Lawn Tennis Association has been reminding fans to stay hydrated and wear hats and sun cream.

Cricket events continue this week. The women's T20 World Cup is ongoing, while the England men's team will face New Zealand in the third Test at Trent Bridge from Thursday. Scotland and Ireland are in T20 World Cup action in two separate matches at Gloucestershire Cricket in Bristol on Tuesday, and England will face West Indies at Lord's on Wednesday. Capacity crowds of over 5,000 were expected for the Scotland and Wales fixtures, but school closures due to the heat mean more than 2,000 children will no longer attend. Attendance is expected to be further reduced as some ticket holders decide to stay home. Flag ceremonies at the start of matches have been shortened for safety reasons and due to the involvement of under-18s. Player safety is assessed by a designated safety officer. There is no blanket rule for abandoning cricket matches due to temperature, but the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) mandates extra drinks breaks and matches may be curtailed if health risks arise. The Marylebone Cricket Club laws allow umpires to suspend play if weather makes it dangerous. An ECB spokesperson said guidance is shared with venues and teams, with each situation handled individually. Extra guidance is also given to spectators. For recreational cricket, the ECB suggests shortening matches and providing shaded cool-down areas.