England’s upcoming World Cup match has been rescheduled due to the threat of thunderstorms in Mexico City. Originally set for 1am UK time on Monday, FIFA has made a rare decision to move the game to 7pm UK time on Sunday night. Weather forecasts indicated the likelihood of severe thunderstorms and heavy rain during the initial kick-off time.
The forecasts predicted nearly 5mm of rainfall at the Banorte Stadium, also known as the Azteca, with a significant band of stormy weather across the Mexican capital. Safety regulations mandate a 30-minute delay for play if lightning strikes within an eight-mile radius of the stadium.
Similar weather disruptions were seen in other World Cup matches. France’s match against Iraq faced a delay of over two hours in Philadelphia due to severe weather conditions. FIFA’s regulations allow for the rescheduling, relocation, or cancellation of fixtures at their discretion for safety reasons.
England’s Marcus Rashford acknowledged the potential schedule change and emphasized the team’s readiness and focus regardless of the circumstances. The decision to reschedule the match came shortly after Keir Starmer announced extended pub hours in England and Wales for fans to watch England’s late-night fixtures during the World Cup.
The Prime Minister’s relaxation of alcohol licensing laws allowed pubs to stay open until 5am without requiring special late licenses. The England match in Mexico City was expected to conclude after 3am UK time, potentially running even later if penalties were to decide the game.