2026 World Cup: England-Mexico round of 16 clash could move forward due to weather conditions
By OnzeActu · · 3 min read
FIFA is considering changing the schedule of the England-Mexico match in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. The reason: forecasts of storms in Mexico, which could cause disruptions to the calendar and impact the organization for teams and fans.
FIFA is currently in discussions to bring forward the schedule of the highly anticipated round of 16 between England and Mexico at the 2026 World Cup, initially scheduled for 1:00 a.m. (French time) on Monday, i.e. 6:00 p.m. in Mexico. This potential delay would be motivated by the risk of storms and heavy rains announced at the time of kick-off at the Azteca stadium, a situation which has not yet been the subject of any official confirmation from the world football body.
According to tournament rules, any detection of lightning within a radius of 13 kilometers around the stadium requires an automatic stoppage of the match for 30 minutes. FIFA has reserved the right to “postpone, reschedule or relocate” matches depending on security requirements. On the English side, the news was received with frustration, the Federation having learned late of the rescheduling intentions while preparations continue normally.
Interviewed after the training session in Kansas City, Marcus Rashford and Morgan Rogers were fatalistic but focused on their preparation, emphasizing the group's ability to adapt to any situation and stay mobilized, whatever the schedule. “It’s not ideal but it doesn’t change the way we prepare,” Rashford insisted. Rogers added: “The sooner the game starts, the better. We just want to play. »
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Capricious weather conditions have been a constant challenge since the start of the 2026 World Cup organized jointly by Mexico, the United States and Canada. Interruptions have already taken place, notably during Mexico's previous match against Ecuador, delayed by an hour due to the weather.
The Azteca stadium, perched at an altitude of 2,240 meters, still looks formidable for the English: the Mexican selection has only conceded two defeats there in 89 matches. In addition to the altitude, temperatures are expected to rise to around 26°C if scheduled in the middle of the day, making the physical effort all the more demanding for the players.
For supporters, this possible change of schedule represents a real difficulty. Nearly 3,000 England fans are expected at the 87,000-seat stadium, with some having adjusted long-held travel plans. In the United Kingdom, measures had been taken to allow pubs to stay open until 5 a.m., but the situation remains to be clarified if the match is brought forward into the evening.
FIFA is still giving itself time to decide as tension rises among delegations and fans in the home stretch before this meeting.