FIFA Weighs Mexico vs Egypt World Cup Kick-Off Change Over Thunderstorm Threat

FIFA is reportedly considering bringing forward the kick-off time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash between co-hosts Mexico and Egypt due to concerns over severe weather in Mexico City.

The highly anticipated fixture at the iconic Azteca Stadium was originally scheduled to kick off at 6:00 p.m. local time on Sunday (1:00 a.m. BST on Monday). However, reports from Latin American broadcaster Claro Sports indicate that the match could now start an hour earlier following forecasts of heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Adding weight to the reports, Andrés Vaca, a commentator for Mexico's official World Cup broadcaster TUDN, also revealed that the kick-off time has been adjusted to an earlier slot.

Despite the widespread reports, FIFA has yet to issue an official statement confirming the proposed schedule change.

Weather has already emerged as one of the major talking points at the expanded 2026 World Cup, with organisers closely monitoring conditions across several host cities to ensure player safety and minimise disruptions to the tournament.

Opinion

If FIFA approves the change, it would be a sensible decision. Player safety and match quality should always take priority over sticking rigidly to the original schedule. Severe thunderstorms can create dangerous playing conditions and affect the overall spectacle. Acting early based on reliable weather forecasts would demonstrate proactive tournament management rather than waiting for conditions to force a last-minute delay.