Athletes warn climate change is reshaping sports

Athletes at a UN climate summit highlighted how rising global temperatures are altering sports, making conditions unsafe and widening socioeconomic disparities.

Dorany Pineda and Michael Phillis report for The Associated Press.

In short:

• Indian triathlete Pragnya Mohan said rising temperatures have made training in her home country impossible, forcing her to relocate.
• Athletes and clubs are advocating for climate action, though experts say systemic changes face resistance from governing bodies.
• Climate-related challenges such as heat and extreme weather are increasing costs for athletes and pushing some sports to adapt or relocate events.

Key quote:

“In the future, if climate change is not addressed and is not thoughtfully handled, triathlons can cease to exist.”

— Leslie Mabon, environmental systems lecturer

Why this matters:

Sports reflect the broader societal impacts of climate change, from economic divides to health risks. Athlete advocacy could spur greater public awareness, but systemic resistance remains a hurdle.

Read more:

• Sport's hypocrisy in the climate crisis
• Baseball’s future may rest on adapting to climate change
• Athletes face significant health risks from air pollution