Thunderstorm delays Mexico-England World Cup clash by one hour, US embassy issues safety alert
A severe thunderstorm over Mexico City forced FIFA to postpone the round-of-16 match between Mexico and England by one hour, while the US embassy cautioned its citizens about overcrowding and potential demonstrations.
Storm delays kickoff
A severe thunderstorm with lightning and heavy rain swept over Mexico City just as the Azteca Stadium gates opened for the World Cup round-of-16 match between Mexico and England. FIFA announced that the 18:00 local time kickoff would be delayed by one hour to 19:00 (03:00 CEST).
The storm flooded streets and made some roads impassable. FIFA regulations prohibit play under such conditions due to lightning risk. Earlier in the day, the governing body had considered moving the match to 12:00 local time, when conditions were sunny and around 20°C, but the change was not implemented.The safety of all involved is FIFA's top priority.
Fans wait in the rain
Around 80,000 fans were expected at the iconic stadium. Many were already inside when the delay was announced, wearing rain ponchos and singing "Mexiko, Mexiko" almost without pause. An arena spokesperson initially said the team buses would be delayed, then about 45 minutes before the original kickoff, the postponement was confirmed, drawing boos from the crowd. Despite the disruption, the noise inside the stadium was described as if a match were already underway. Photographers had been allowed to take their positions about 90 minutes before the scheduled start, only for thunder to resume shortly after.
- Gates open, fans enter as storm approaches.
- Photographers allowed to positions; thunder resumes.
- Delay announced; boos from the crowd.
- New kickoff time.
US embassy issues safety alert
Separately, the US embassy in Mexico City issued a security warning to American citizens ahead of the match. It noted that large crowds were expected at fan festivals, stadiums, and public viewing sites across the capital and nationwide. The embassy said recent public viewing events had seen injuries and deaths due to overcrowding. It also warned about possible demonstrations, reminding US citizens that Mexican law prohibits foreign nationals from participating in political protests, with violations potentially leading to arrest or deportation.
A pattern of weather disruption
This is the second time in the tournament that a Mexico match at the Azteca Stadium has been delayed by weather. The round-of-32 game against Ecuador also started 60 minutes late because of a thunderstorm. Mexico won that match 2-0.
