Severe Weather Delays FIFA World Cup 2026 Match Between Mexico and England

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Mexico and England was postponed by one hour due to severe weather, including lightning and heavy rain. Originally set to start at 6 p.m. local time, the match will now kick off at 7 p.m. local time. FIFA prioritized safety, issuing a shelter-in-place order for spectators and staff. The article also details the starting lineups for both teams and outlines FIFA's lightning safety protocols, ensuring the well-being of all attendees.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 6, 2026, 05:45 IST

Match Delay Due to Severe Weather Conditions

The Round of 16 match in the FIFA World Cup 2026 featuring Mexico and England faced a one-hour delay on Sunday due to extreme weather conditions, including lightning, heavy rainfall, and hail around the Azteca Stadium, as reported by a sports network.

FIFA announced that the match, initially set to kick off at 6 p.m. local time, would now commence at 7 p.m. local time (9 p.m. EDT) after storm protocols were activated. A statement from FIFA emphasized, "Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including the risk of lightning near the stadium, the kick-off of the World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Mexico and England has been postponed to 7 p.m. local time (9 p.m. EDT). The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA's priority. We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all fans."

An hour prior to the scheduled start, a shelter-in-place order was issued, instructing spectators, media, and stadium personnel to remain sheltered as thunder rumbled and lightning illuminated the sky.

This disruption followed earlier discussions about potentially moving the match to an earlier time to avoid forecasted storms. At one point, a noon kickoff was considered, but FIFA ultimately decided to maintain the original evening schedule until the weather necessitated the delay.

Starting Lineups for the Match

The starting lineup for England includes: Jordan Pickford, Jarell Quansah, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O'Reilly, Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, and Harry Kane.

For Mexico, the starting players are: Raul Rangel, Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez, Jesus Gallardo, Erik Lira, Luis Romo, Gilberto Mora, Raul Jimenez, Julian Quinones, and Roberto Alvarado.

England's coach, Tuchel, made three changes to the lineup, bringing in Jarell Quansah to replace Djed Spence at right back, while Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon returned to the starting eleven. On the other hand, Aguirre retained the same Mexican squad that triumphed over Ecuador in the previous round.

FIFA Lightning Safety Protocol

According to FIFA's safety protocol, a match cannot commence or continue if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium. Play can only resume after a 30-minute period without any lightning strikes, with each new strike resetting the countdown timer.