The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain is set to take place in New Jersey tomorrow, but the event faces an unexpected challenge as severe air pollution grips the region. Smoke from massive wildfires in Canada has drifted into New York and New Jersey, pushing air quality to hazardous levels. Authorities in New York have issued an emergency health alert, warning residents to limit outdoor activities.

According to IQAir data, Chicago, Detroit, and New York now rank among the world’s most polluted cities. The New York City Emergency Management Department described the situation as the city’s worst smoke crisis since 2023. Environmental expert Michael Petroni compared breathing the city’s air to smoking ten cigarettes a day. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has urged residents to avoid outdoor exercise, while officials distribute masks to the public.

Despite the suffocating conditions, both finalists have continued their preparations. Spain trained in East Hanover, New Jersey, while defending champions Argentina arrived from Atlanta after completing their final session. The match will kick off at 1 a.m. Bangladesh time, as fans await whether the environmental crisis will affect the spectacle.