The BBC was forced to make last-minute changes to its World Cup 2026 coverage after a severe thunderstorm caused a suspension of the France vs Iraq match. Kelly Cates returned to screens on Monday night (June 22) to present BBC One's coverage from Philadelphia Stadium. She was joined in the Salford studio by Olivier Giroud, Joe Hart and Gael Clichy. The programme began at 9.30pm and was scheduled to run until 12.30am.
Match Suspended Due to Severe Weather
Supporters and players were soaked when heavy rainfall began in the 35th minute. Play continued until half-time, with France leading 1-0. As Kelly and the panel started their half-time review, attendees were instructed to seek cover due to a "severe thunderstorm approaching," according to the Mirror. FIFA confirmed the match was suspended due to the risk of lightning, announcing a 30-minute break. A FIFA spokesperson said: "Due to adverse weather conditions in Philadelphia, including the risk of lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the FIFA World Cup match between France and Iraq has been suspended. A 30-minute break has been announced."
The statement continued: "However, the situation is still being observed to determine if further delays are anticipated. FIFA will follow the safety protocols established by the local authorities, and the match will resume as soon as it is safe to do so. The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA's priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation."
BBC's Schedule Shake-Up
The BBC had only scheduled live transmission until 12.30am, so arrangements were swiftly altered. Instead, a repeat of Ollie Watkins' press conference was broadcast, along with a segment from the Scotland camp featuring Eilidh Barbour. As the interruption persisted, the football programming was eventually replaced with continuous BBC News coverage. The BBC resumed its World Cup coverage at 12.45am, with commentators Steve Wilson and Stephen Warnock presenting the action instead of Kelly in the studio. The second half kicked off at 1am, with France ultimately securing a 3-0 victory.
Viewer Reactions
Numerous BBC viewers expressed confusion and frustration over the interruption. One person posted on X (formerly Twitter): "Why f*** are the BBC polluting my living room with Keir Starmer [news], when I'm just trying to enjoy France vs Iraq?! Get this off!!" Another commented: "If this weather suspension goes on any longer the BBC are going to find themselves with no other option but to play footage from the 1936 Berlin Olympics." A third remarked: "First weather delay of the 2026 World Cup just hit." Coverage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is available to stream on BBC iPlayer and ITVX.
