Mexico vs England delay: This is the thunderstorm protocol at Mexico City Stadium

Kickoff for the World Cup Round of 16 clash between Mexico and England at Mexico City Stadium has been delayed by an hour after severe thunderstorms moved across the area before the game.

Here’s the official statement regarding kick-off:

“Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including risk caused by lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the kick-off of the World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Mexico and England has been delayed to 7 p.m. local time (9 p.m. ET). The safety and security of all individuals is Fifa’s priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation.”

Heavy rain hits Mexico City

Heavy rain, thunder and lightning were reported around the stadium several hours before the scheduled 8 p.m. ET start time, forcing tournament officials to activate storm safety procedures. Pitch access was restricted, media were told to remain indoors and supporters were kept under shelter while conditions were monitored.

Under FIFA’s tournament safety procedures, the decision to delay or restart a game is made in coordination with local authorities and stadium safety officials. If lightning is detected close enough to pose a risk, players, officials, staff and fans must remain in safe areas until the danger has passed.

Will Mexico vs England be delayed?

For this match in Mexico City, the protocol means kickoff can be pushed back in 30-minute intervals after the initial one hour delay, until officials are satisfied that conditions are safe. The same principle applies if a storm interrupts play once the game has started: the match is stopped, teams leave the field and the clock only restarts once the severe weather threat has cleared.

Mexico City is particularly vulnerable to this kind of disruption during the summer rainy season, when afternoon and evening storms are common. The issue had already been discussed before the game, with forecasts warning of a significant chance of thunderstorms around kickoff.

The delay adds another complication to an already demanding fixture. Mexico are playing at home in the high altitude of the Azteca, while England must wait to begin one of the most anticipated knockout games of the tournament. The winner will face Norway in the quarterfinals after their shock victory over Brazil.

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