England’s Intense Heat Training Under Thomas Tuchel for the 2026 World Cup
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, England’s football squad is undergoing rigorous heat acclimatization sessions under the guidance of their new manager, Thomas Tuchel. This innovative training regimen aims to prepare the team for the challenging climates they will face in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer.
The players recently completed 45-minute cycling sessions inside specially designed heated tents maintained at a sweltering 36°C (96.8°F). To closely monitor their physiological responses, they ingested biometric tablets that tracked their internal body temperatures and heart rates. These extreme fitness tests took place at a training camp in Girona, Spain, where players were challenged to maintain specific power outputs on exercise bikes despite the oppressive conditions.
Crystal Palace forward Eberechi Eze described the experience as particularly demanding. “After taking those tablets, you had to be on the bike for about 45 minutes and just had to keep going,” Eze shared. “They monitored your heart rate and actual body temperature. It was quite difficult to do, and 45 minutes is a long time on a bike.”
Cole Palmer from Chelsea echoed Eze’s sentiments, noting the technical challenges of the sessions. “It was tough. It was 36°C inside the tents, and we had to reach certain wattage levels on the bike and maintain it,” the 23-year-old explained.
The training experience also includes insights from striker Ivan Toney, who has played in Saudi Arabia’s extreme heat. “You can’t just sprint for 90-plus minutes,” Toney pointed out. “It requires a tactical approach to your runs, and it definitely alters your game a bit, but it’s beneficial.” He emphasized the need to adapt: “Sometimes you have to sit back for a bit or focus on keeping possession.”
For Eze, this was his first encounter with such intensive heat training methods. “It was a unique experience for me,” he confirmed. The squad is currently based at the Camiral Golf and Wellness Centre outside Girona, which will host the 2031 Ryder Cup, before heading to Barcelona for a World Cup qualifier against Andorra at Espanyol’s stadium. Following this, England will face Senegal in a friendly match at Nottingham’s City Ground.
Tuchel is keen to start preparations early, and for Eze, the training camp comes on the heels of a memorable season that saw Crystal Palace lift the FA Cup after defeating Manchester City. “The most special thing is when you speak to fans and see their reactions; it’s incredible to understand what it truly means to them,” he reflected. Eze also celebrated scoring his first England goal against Latvia in March, calling it a “special moment” that has boosted his confidence.
This groundbreaking training approach not only prepares the team physically but also builds camaraderie as they gear up for one of the biggest tournaments in football. Keep an eye on England as they strive for success in the 2026 World Cup!
