The English Football Association (FA) will supply the national football team with personalized bedding to optimize players’ sleep as they strive for England’s second FIFA World Cup trophy in the upcoming tournament.
England is among 48 nations set to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, from June 11 to July 19. The team, captained by Harry Kane, will stay at a Kansas City hotel.
Team coach Thomas Tuchel has crafted a thorough plan, collaborating with sleep scientists to guarantee that the players enjoy “world-class” sleep quality during their hotel stay.
Each player will receive a customized “sleep kit” that includes bedding, blankets, pillows, and other sleep aids to ensure optimal rest before their matches. The kits feature a tailored mattress topper and lightweight foam layer to alleviate bed firmness, all adjusted to match individual player measurements and sleep habits.
Moreover, the comprehensive sleep strategy calls for the use of “special gel cooling” pillows to help regulate body temperature, particularly in the heat and humidity common during tournaments. Reports indicate that British athletes are encouraged to bring personal comforts like blankets and photos to foster a more relaxing atmosphere.
Guests at the Kansas City hotel have previously expressed dissatisfaction, citing issues like “rock-hard pillows” and thin walls that allowed for noise disturbances. The FA is working with British Sport to address these concerns, ensuring that the England team’s arrangements include custom bedding and pillows. Dr. Luke Gupta, a sleep scientist, is advising the FA on enhancing sleep quality.
“Some players new to the squad might not be accustomed to late-night games, while others are more experienced in handling it,” Gupta explained. “We collaborate to maintain a calm environment and establish a routine aimed at promoting restorative sleep.”
Former England sleep coach Nick Littlehales noted that modern soccer is about “maximizing performance margins,” with sleep being a key factor.
“If Harry Kane requests a particular mattress or his favorite teddy bear for better sleep, he will certainly receive it,” he remarked.
England’s only FIFA World Cup victory came in 1966, and the team is eager to secure their second title, ending a 60-year wait. Their first match is slated against Croatia on June 17th at Dallas Stadium (AT&T Stadium) in Arlington, Texas.
The FA has previously implemented measures to ensure English players receive sufficient sleep during competitions, including custom arrangements during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament, where England finished as runners-up to Spain.
During the 2028 FIFA World Cup in Russia, blackout blinds were installed for the team to help combat St. Petersburg’s near-endless sunlight.
