Kick-off in England’s clash with Mexico delayed by one hour
The match was due to kick-off at 6pm local time (1am UK).
England’s last-16 World Cup clash with Mexico has been delayed by one hour due to thunderstorms at the Estadio Azteca.
The match was due to kick-off at 6pm local time (1am UK), but with the threat of lightning in the area, the stadium activated its thunderstorm protocol less than an hour before then and the game will now commence at 7pm (2am UK).
A FIFA statement read: “Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including risk caused by lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the kick-off of the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Mexico and England has been delayed to 19.00 local time (21:00 EDT).
“The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA’s priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation.”
The delay is another challenge for England to deal with ahead of a crunch match, where they have to battle Mexico’s home advantage and the altitude.
The storm has at least cooled the air down, with temperatures at 20 degrees.
A huge thunderstorm hit three and a half hours before the scheduled kick-off when there were incessant bouts of lightning and thunder, before winds picked up and heavy rain hit.
The big screens inside the stadium displayed signs warning people that an electrical storm was approaching and to remain in their seat, though people ran for cover when the heavens opened.
The conditions eased and England arrived at the stadium around 100 minutes before kick-off and staff made their way out on to the pitch to set up the warm-up, despite apparent lightning in the area.
However, around 5.10pm the thunderstorms protocol was activated and FIFA announced the decision to delay kick-off.
Mexico’s last-32 match with Ecuador on Wednesday was delayed by an hour after thunderstorms again struck.
The delay came after Thomas Tuchel named his side for the clash that sees England return to the Azteca for the first time since their famous 1986 World Cup quarter-final against Argentina, where Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ goal sent Argentina through.
Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon and Jarell Quansah returned as Tuchel made three changes.