The match between England and Mexico has been postponed due to thunderstorms in Mexico City. The match at Azteca Stadium was originally scheduled to start at 6pm local time (1am UK time), but will now start an hour later than requested. It was revealed earlier this week that storms were forecast around kick-off time, increasing the likelihood of delays and interruptions.
Under FIFA rules, if lightning occurs within eight miles of the stadium, play must be stopped or delayed. The game can only be restarted if 30 minutes have passed since the last lightning strike. Many matches at this year’s tournament have already suffered similar delays due to lightning and inclement weather.
The match between England and Mexico is scheduled to start an hour later than scheduled, at 7pm local time (2am UK time).
“Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including the risk of lightning near the stadium, the kick-off for the Round of 16 match between Mexico and England of the 2026 World Cup has been postponed to 7pm local time,” FIFA said in a statement.
“The safety and security of every individual is FIFA’s top priority. We thank our fans for their understanding and cooperation.”
This came after a shelter-in-place warning was issued for the area around Azteca Stadium about three hours before kickoff. The advice given to supporters and media inside the ground was to stay in their seats.
Speculation had increased that the game would be moved up by six hours following news of possible inclement weather on Friday night. However, it was finally confirmed that, contrary to widespread reports, FIFA had not in fact decided to reschedule the match.
Further delays may occur if lightning occurs again after the start of the match at Azteca Stadium. In that case, the 30-minute rule would apply.
If that period passes without further lightning strikes, players will be allowed to warm up briefly before play resumes.
England would face Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals if they beat Mexico, and Erling Haaland scored twice for a shock victory over Brazil on Sunday night.
