Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMexico v England - Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico - July 5, 2026 Fans shield themselves from the rain inside the stadium before the match (Reuters)Thunderstorms have struck Mexico City hours before England's World Cup match against Mexico, scheduled for a 1am UK time kick-off. FIFA have opted not to bring the game forward at this point, despite forecasts predicting an 80% chance of thunderstorms at 5pm local time and 60% at 6pm. A shelter in place order was issued before the Mexico v England World Cup last-16 clash due to thunderstorms in the area around the Azteca Stadium, FIFA said on Sunday. People working on the pitch were asked to move into the tunnel while a message on the stadium screen warned that severe weather was approaching the venue.Although no delay is currently suggested, play cannot commence until 30 minutes after lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius, following a previous match delay. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed confidence in England and noted extended pub licensing for fans, while supporters acknowledged the challenges of playing at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca. In fullMexico v England LIVE: Tuchel makes three major changes for World Cup last 16 tie as ‘severe weather’ approaches World Cup last 16 tieMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
Thunderstorms arrive in Mexico City before England World Cup match
Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMexico v England - Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico - July 5, 2026 Fans shield themselves from the rain inside the stadium before the match (Reuters)Thunderstorms have struck Mexico City hours before England's World Cup match against Mexico, scheduled for a 1am UK time kick-off. FIFA have opted not to bring the game forward at this point, despite forecasts predicting an 80% chance of thunderstorms at 5pm local time and 60% at 6pm. A shelter in place order was issued before the Mexico v England World Cup last-16 clash due to thunderstorms in the area around the Azteca Stadium, FIFA said on Sunday. People working on the pitch were asked to move into the tunnel while a message on the stadium screen warned that severe weather was approaching the venue.Although no delay is currently suggested, play cannot commence until 30 minutes after lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius, following a previous match delay. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed confidence in England and noted extended pub licensing for fans, while supporters acknowledged the challenges of playing at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca. In fullMexico v England LIVE: Tuchel makes three major changes for World Cup last 16 tie as ‘severe weather’ approaches World Cup last 16 tieMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
