FIFA is in discussions to change the kick-off time of the England vs Mexico round of 16 match at the World Cup due to the threat of a thunderstorm and heavy rainfall. The game, scheduled for Sunday at 6pm local time (1am BST Monday) at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, could now start six hours earlier at noon local time (7pm BST Sunday).
Weather Threatens Match Schedule
The possibility of a thunderstorm close to kick-off prompted FIFA to consider the change. The news was communicated to the Football Association (FA) as the England team prepared to board a Friday afternoon flight from their base camp in Kansas City to Mexico City.
This development follows a previous weather-related delay at the same venue: Mexico's round of 32 clash with Ecuador last week was delayed by an hour before kick-off due to electrical storms, according to reports.
Impact on Fans and UK Parliament Decisions
A decision by FIFA will have significant ramifications for fans who may need to change flights or travel plans at short notice. In the UK, Parliament had previously granted special late-night licences for pubs in England and Wales to stay open until 5am on Monday morning, allowing fans to watch the full match. However, with the proposed new kick-off time of 7pm BST, those licences may become redundant.
The match is a crucial round of 16 fixture in the 2026 World Cup, and both teams are eager to progress. The final decision on the kick-off time is expected imminently.
