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The latest updates from the World Cup round of 16 encounter at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

The kick-off for England’s round of 16 match against Mexico at the World Cup has been delayed after storm safety protocols were triggered at Estadio Azteca.

The fixture was originally scheduled to begin at 6pm local time (1am UK time), following FIFA’s earlier suggestion to move the match to an earlier slot — a proposal that both England and Mexico declined.

However, a storm swept across Mexico City roughly three hours before the scheduled start, and play cannot commence until the weather clears sufficiently.

According to FIFA regulations, fans and players are not permitted entry into the venue if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium at the time gates are due to open.

Furthermore, at least 30 minutes must pass after the last recorded lightning strike within that boundary before the match can be cleared to proceed. The same rule applies if another thunderstorm occurs during play.

Journalist Tariq Panja reported on BlueSky a little more than three hours before kick-off that the storm protocol had been activated at Estadio Azteca.

Subsequent reports suggested that the teams were advised not to travel to the stadium; however, both squads arrived as planned around 4:25pm local time.

The storm was initially expected to move on before the scheduled start, but it has now been officially confirmed that the new kick-off time will be 7pm local time (2am UK time).

A FIFA statement explained: “Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including the risk posed by lightning near the stadium, the kick-off of the World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Mexico and England has been delayed to 19.00 local time (21:00 EDT). The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA’s priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation.”

As of now, AccuWeather’s forecast for Mexico City still predicts additional thunderstorms between 8pm and 9pm local time.

Should that occur, it could interrupt play once more — similar to the France vs Iraq group stage match in Philadelphia, where half-time lasted nearly two hours due to severe weather conditions.

For England supporters staying up late to watch, the delay means an even later night than expected. It could also impact fans watching from pubs back home, although establishments have been granted permission to remain open until 5am.