England To Use Hand-Cooling Technology At World Cup Heat

To cope with sweltering conditions at the upcoming World Cup in the United States, England’s players will rely on innovative palm-cooling devices. Forecasts indicate that more than one-third of matches could see temperatures exceed 26°C (79°F), with high humidity adding to the challenge.

During the team’s first training session in West Palm Beach, Florida, the mercury hit 32°C (90°F) on Tuesday. In response, the squad will use handheld cooling equipment—a method gaining traction among elite athletes. Manchester United, for instance, has already adopted similar technology.

Research suggests that cooling the palms effectively reduces core body temperature, aiding recovery during games and boosting on-field performance. England plans to use the devices in practice sessions and during official water breaks in World Cup matches.

Midfielder Jordan Henderson emphasised the importance of adapting to the environment, noting that the opening week is focused on “building capacity for the conditions.”

He added that upcoming friendlies would help with acclimatization. Henderson also praised the support staff for their “top-level research” into recovery and cooling strategies, saying, “Hopefully that gives us a small edge when the tournament starts.”

England will warm up with friendlies against New Zealand (June 6) and Costa Rica (June 10). Their World Cup group stage kicks off against Croatia on June 17 (21:00 local), followed by Ghana (June 23, 21:00) and Panama (June 27, 22:00).