The scheduled kick-off for the World Cup last-16 match between England and Mexico in Mexico City has been postponed due to thunderstorms. Supporters at the Azteca Stadium have sought shelter, and media members have been advised to remain in the media center amid a yellow severe weather warning.
England's players arrived as scheduled, initially offering hope the match would proceed on time. However, lightning strikes near the stadium prompted the delay, with the game now unable to begin earlier than 2 a.m. UK time (8 p.m. local). This delay extends the viewing hours for millions of England fans watching overnight in pubs and at home. Forecasters had warned on Friday of the increasing likelihood of adverse weather conditions in Mexico City.
If the match progresses to extra time and penalties, it could conclude closer to 4 a.m. Suspensions due to weather could push the final whistle even later, potentially past 6 a.m. In anticipation of the late finish, pubs were granted special permission by the government to remain open into the early hours, and schools are allowing students to start later on Monday.
FIFA adheres to guidance from local officials regarding weather, and in North America, a strict stance is taken on inclement weather during sporting events. A match must be suspended if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium. Play cannot resume until 30 minutes have passed without further strikes in the area. Players will be moved to the dressing room, and fans directed to concourses during such events.
This is not the first weather-related suspension at this World Cup. Mexico's victory over Ecuador and France's win against Iraq were also delayed by adverse weather. Earlier in the week, there were discussions about moving the England vs. Mexico kick-off forward by six hours, a proposal that reportedly had significant backing from the Mexican government. This consideration followed the deaths of three fans during chaotic scenes after Mexico's last-32 victory. However, the Football Association was informed of these proposals via Mexican media, leading to a strong negative reaction from both the England and Mexico camps. FIFA ultimately decided against moving the game, a decision confirmed while England's team was en route to Mexico City.
Mexico City has presented other challenges for the England team. Ahead of the match, Mexican fans gathered outside the team's hotel late Saturday night, using horns, loud music, and drums in an attempt to disturb the players. Despite a significant police presence of around 300 officers, the fans, numbering approximately 50, were kept at a distance of about 500 meters from the hotel. The players had been provided with earplugs as a precaution.