France‑Iraq World Cup match delayed by lightning in Philadelphia

The opening Group C match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup between France and Iraq was suspended after a lightning strike near the stadium. Spectators were instructed to seek shelter, with the on‑screen message reading, “Vennligst forlat tribuneplassene under åpen himmel og søk tilflukt.”

According to tournament protocol, play cannot resume until there has been a 30‑minute period without lightning within a 12‑kilometre radius. France coach Didier Deschamps told beIN Sports, “Jeg har sluttet å gi dem (spillerne) oppdateringer, fordi det endres hvert 30. sekund. Vi venter.” Kylian Mbappé scored his 15th World Cup goal, putting him three behind Lionel Messi’s record, and France led 1‑0 when the interruption occurred. The delay also affected the scheduling of Norway’s later game against Senegal.

The match will restart once conditions are safe, with officials closely monitoring the weather.