The FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash between England and Mexico was delayed by one hour after severe thunderstorms and lightning struck Mexico City ahead of kickoff.
FIFA announced that the match at Estadio Azteca would begin at 7:00 p.m. local time, one hour later than originally scheduled, citing adverse weather conditions and the risk of lightning near the stadium. The governing body said the safety of players, officials and supporters was its top priority.
Heavy rain, thunder and lightning swept across the area in the hours before kickoff, forcing fans to shelter inside the stadium as weather warnings were displayed on the big screens. Under FIFA safety protocols, play cannot begin until at least 30 minutes have passed without lightning being detected within the designated safety zone.
The weather delay marked another disruption during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Mexico’s previous knockout match also having been postponed because of similar storm conditions.