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Mexico-England World Cup clash faces lightning delay at Azteca Stadium
FIFA activated its storm‑lightning protocol at Estadio Azteca hours before the round‑of‑16 match between Mexico and England in the 2026 World Cup. The procedure requires an immediate suspension if lightning is detected within an eight‑mile (13 km) radius, and a minimum 30‑minute lightning‑free period before play can resume.
The severe thunderstorm in Mexico City on the evening of 5 July put the scheduled 6 pm local kickoff (1 am GMT) at risk. No official postponement has been announced yet, and officials continue to monitor the weather. The match, featuring England’s Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham against an unbeaten Mexican side, draws high global interest, and any delay could affect broadcasters, fans in stadiums and pubs worldwide.