FIFA moves England-Mexico World Cup knockout match to earlier slot due to storm risk
England's last-16 World Cup game against Mexico will start at 19:00 BST on Sunday after FIFA advanced the kickoff to avoid predicted thunderstorms and heavy rain in Mexico City.
FIFA has shifted the England-Mexico round-of-16 match at the Estadio Azteca to 19:00 BST on Sunday, moving it forward from the originally planned 01:00 BST kickoff on Monday. The change follows weather forecasts that predict thunderstorms and heavy rain around the original start time, although FIFA has not issued a detailed explanation. Under tournament safety rules, lightning within eight miles of the stadium triggers an automatic 30-minute delay, a protocol that previously delayed France’s group-stage game in Philadelphia for more than two hours.
FIFA’s 2026 World Cup regulations allow the governing body to cancel, reschedule or relocate matches at its sole discretion. When asked about the adjustment at England’s training session, winger Marcus Rashford said the timing shift was “not ideal” but emphasized that the team would remain focused and ready for any challenge.
The match will be played at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca, situated about 7,220 ft (2,240 m) above sea level, where Mexico have lost only two of 89 games. The altitude reduces oxygen availability, potentially increasing heart rate, fatigue and dehydration for players. The earlier evening kickoff is expected to bring temperatures of around 26 °C, higher than the originally forecast 20 °C for a later start.