England – Mexico: the start of the round of 16 brought forward due to the risk of storms in Mexico
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
The round of 16 clash between England and Mexico at the 2026 World Cup is set to be brought forward by six hours, to avoid the risk of thunderstorms in the Mexican capital. FIFA has not yet confirmed the information, but discussions are ongoing with the various parties. This change would also impact the organization of other matches in the tournament.
Following the threat of thunderstorms hovering over Mexico, the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match between England and Mexico is set to be moved forward by six hours. Initially scheduled for 1 a.m. (French time) during the night from Sunday to Monday (i.e. 6 p.m. local time), it would finally be held from 7 p.m. (French time), i.e. 12 p.m. local time, this Sunday.
According to Mexican media, also relayed by the BBC, this decision responds to a major risk of storm, while Mexico has already faced interruptions during the previous Mexico-Ecuador match, delayed due to heavy rain. The tournament regulations impose a 30-minute suspension as soon as lightning is detected less than 13 km from the stadium, already causing delays during previous matches, such as the France-Iraq match.
FIFA, which has the right to “reorganize, cancel or relocate” any match depending on conditions, has not made this new schedule official, but sources close to the matter confirm that talks are underway, in particular to prevent any risk of flooding and further interruptions.
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This change would be rather well received by English supporters, a 7 p.m. kick-off being much more accessible than a 1 a.m. broadcast. The flexibility of pub hours, already authorized to stay open until 5 a.m. by a decision of the British Prime Minister in view of the competition, could be called into question depending on this new schedule. A reflection is also being launched in the United Kingdom on Monday school hours to allow the youngest to follow the event.
This new slot would cause a possible overlap with the Brazil-Norway round of 16, initially scheduled for 9 p.m. (French time). According to the latest indications, FIFA is therefore planning to move this match back to 10 p.m. in order to avoid any collision between the matches.
As for the English players, Marcus Rashford admitted at a press conference that these adjustments are “not ideal” but that the group is ready to adapt: “We have to prepare for the match in the same way, no matter the time. It is also a collective strength. » His teammate Morgan Rogers confirmed this feeling, assuring that the players will be “ready whatever the schedule, and even happy to play earlier”.