South Africa is back at the World Cup for the first time since 2010. Sixteen years. Zakumi would be 32 by now.

And just as we get there, the planet turns up the thermostat, setting yet another new record. Not only is this the most polluting World Cup ever, but it’s also the hottest.In this episode, KG Mokgadi tackles the 2026 FIFA World Cup.  

Scientists are warning about dangerous heat levels in host cities.  Athletes across multiple sports are already collapsing in extreme temperatures.  After public backlash, FIFA reversed its water bottle ban and will now allow fans to bring one factory-sealed, soft plastic disposable water bottle.

Yet one of the tournament's biggest sponsors remains Saudi Aramco, the world's largest oil company.Because apparently the solution to a climate crisis is more fossil fuel money. We get into the mandatory cooling breaks, the 48-team format that makes this the most polluting World Cup ever, the open letters from 100+ professional players calling on FIFA to drop the deal, and the playbook with a name: sportswashing.

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