Cambridge study urges FIFA and pop concerts to cut travel emissions with cheaper tickets

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that spectator travel is by far the largest source of carbon emissions at major sporting and music events. Analysing Coldplay’s 2024 European tour and projections for the expanded 48‑team 2026 FIFA World Cup, they calculated that fan journeys account for 97 % of concert emissions and 82 % of the tournament’s projected carbon footprint. The World Cup is expected to generate around 4.23 million tonnes of CO₂ – roughly the annual emissions of Iceland – with about three million tonnes coming from fans flying to matches.

The study recommends that organisers move beyond carbon‑offset schemes and instead reward low‑carbon transport choices, for example by offering discounted tickets to fans who travel by train or bus. Shaun Larcom, the study’s corresponding author, said, “Effective climate strategies for mega‑events like the World Cup go well beyond reducing operational emissions at venues.” Coldplay’s own app‑based incentives helped fans cut travel‑related emissions by 48 %, delivering an overall 46 % reduction in the tour’s emissions.

The researchers argue that similar ticket‑discount incentives could substantially lower the climate impact of future mega‑events.