Mexico vs. England weather updates: Ligthning delays start of Round of 16 matchup

Mexico vs. England weather updates: Ligthning delays start of Round of 16 matchup originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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As Mexico and England face off in a highly anticipated Round of 16 battle, weather appears like it will interfere with the match.

The game is set to take place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, but thunderstorms could potentially force a delay to begin the match. Mexico’s previous win over Ecuador in the Round of 32 was delayed due to storms as well, as it didn’t begin until over two hours after it was scheduled to begin.

These incoming storms could impact an environment in Mexico City that already has an advantage for Mexico, being that Estadio Azteca is already several thousand feet above sea level. Additionally, this match is the last one in Mexico for the World Cup, so the Mexico fans will surely bring the energy.

Here’s the latest on weather updates for Mexico vs. England.

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Mexico vs. England weather updates

7:13 p.m.: Mexico vs. England is officially in a lightning delay.

Breaking: #england v Mexico expected to be delayed by 1hr with renewed lightning in the area around the Azteca Stadium. Kick off now 2am UK time, but could shift later. Players being held in changing rooms until further notice. They cannot go out to warm up.

— Rob Dorsett (@RobDorsettSky) July 5, 2026

5:40 p.m.: Storm protocol is officially active, which means this match will more than likely be delayed to begin.

BREAKING: Storm protocols are in action at the Azteca Stadium due to lightning ahead England’s game against Mexico 🚨 pic.twitter.com/e1VLpMvV8q

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) July 5, 2026

5:25 p.m.: It is officially storming in Mexico City a little more than 2.5 hours out from the match.

The storm has arrived in Mexico City. Very loud thunder and very heavy rain. Let’s hope it’s come early and will blow through in plenty of time for kick-off.

— Matt Law (@Matt_Law_DT) July 5, 2026

4:15 p.m.: Ahead of the Mexico vs. England match on Sunday night, storms could have an impact on the beginning of the game. According to meteorologists in Mexico, there is a 60 percent chance of thunderstorms right at the time the match is expected to kick off.

🚨🇲🇽🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Mexico’s meteorological service is forecasting a 60% chance of thunderstorms just when England are due to kick-off against Mexico. — Be braced for delays.

Servicio Meteorologico Nacional is forecasting an 80% chance of thunderstorms in the 2hrs before kick-off. [sky news]

— CFCDaily (@CFCDaily) July 5, 2026

Mexico vs. England forecast

Thunderstorms are more likely to impact the early part of the contest and lead to potential delays before kickoff. Per FIFA rules, play must be suspended for 30 minutes if there is lightning within eight miles of the stadium.

For those of you staying up to watch England tonight, the local time kick off in Mexico City is 6pm

Weather reports predicting 100% chance of rain and thunder storms

Under FIFA rules play must be suspended if lightning is detected within 8 miles. Only when a period of 30 mins… pic.twitter.com/yrVflOJC20

— WinDrawWin (@windrawwin) July 5, 2026

FIFA lightning rules

If there is dangerous weather in the area, FIFA will institute a weather protocol to makes sure the area is cleared until the weather passes. Here is what FIFA said on the matter:

“In the event of severe weather conditions such as lightning or thunderstorms, FIFA will implement a thorough procedure based on public safety standards, providing clear and specific safety guidelines to all stakeholders involved. FIFA has dedicated meteorological support throughout the tournament to provide accurate forecasting and strengthen real-time operational decision-making.”

During a weather delay, the entire field and stadium is evacuated until the storm passes and the area is safe. Players, team officials and fans all must shelter un place until the FIFA officials decide to resume the game.

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