A new study by the University of Cambridge reveals that spectator travel accounts for 82% of greenhouse gas emissions from large-scale events like the FIFA World Cup.Analyzing the 2026 World Cup and Coldplay’s 2024 European tour, researchers found that fan travel generated 3.07 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent, surpassing Iceland’s annual emissions.

The study highlights that expanding the World Cup to 48 teams increased emissions by 590,000 metric tons, with international travel being the primary contributor.Coldplay’s tour reduced emissions by 48% through fan behavioral changes like low-carbon travel options and discounts.

The research proposes a two-stage framework for event organizers to balance economic benefits with climate costs, suggesting higher-tier tickets should bear greater carbon levies.

The findings emphasize the need for shared responsibility between organizers and fans to mitigate emissions from mega-events, which are increasingly challenged by climate change impacts.