Wildfire smoke drifting south from Canada has forced Major League Baseball to alter plans for several games in the Midwest and Northeast, including at least one postponement, as hazardous air quality alerts spread across the region. The disruption highlights how worsening wildfire seasons are increasingly affecting live sport, prompting teams and leagues to prioritise player and fan health over fixtures.

Air quality alerts have been issued across roughly 15 US states, affecting more than 100 million people, according to health experts who warn of both short-term and long-term risks from fine particulate matter, including aggravated asthma, heart problems and potential cancer risk. Alongside the MLB disruption, a Major League Soccer fixture was also postponed on Thursday, while players from the Phillies and Mets voiced concern about competing in unhealthy conditions, with some venues adjusting logistics such as closing retractable roofs to limit exposure.