BBC forced off air during World Cup 2026 France‑Iraq match in Philadelphia

During the Group I World Cup 2026 match between France and Iraq at Philadelphia Stadium, a severe thunderstorm struck in the 35th minute, prompting officials to suspend play and advise spectators to seek shelter. The match, which was 1‑0 to France at halftime, was delayed for over an hour.

The BBC, which had been broadcasting the game live from its Salford studio with presenter Kelly Cates and pundits Oliver Giroud, Joe Hart and Gaël Clichy, was forced to replace the live football feed with a repeat of Ollie Watkins' press conference, a segment from the Scotland camp, and rolling BBC News coverage. A FIFA spokesperson said: "Due to adverse weather conditions in Philadelphia, including the risk of lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the FIFA World Cup match between France and Iraq has been suspended. A 30‑minute break has been announced."

Coverage resumed at 12:45 am, with commentators Steve Wilson and Stephen Warnock taking over, and the second half kicked off at 1 am. France went on to win the match 3‑0.