The 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador, initially scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Guatemala time at the Mexico City Stadium (Azteca), was postponed due to a strong electrical storm that affected the south of the Mexican capital.
FIFA reported that, given the risk of electrical activity in the vicinity of the stadium, the security protocol was activated to protect players, fans, referees and operational staff.
“The safety and protection of all people is FIFA’s priority,” the organization said in a statement.
After the storm passed and the weather conditions improved, FIFA confirmed that the match will begin at 8:00 p.m. Guatemala time (03.00 GMT on Wednesday, July 1), one hour after the scheduled time.
Furthermore, due to the drop in temperature after the rain, the agency confirmed that there would be no hydration breaks during the game, a measure that had been contemplated before the delay.
Thousands of fans were already around the Mexico City Stadium when the temporary suspension was announced, so the authorities asked to remain calm and follow the instructions of security personnel while the weather conditions were evaluated.
The second game affected by the weather
It is about the second match of the 2026 World Cup which must be temporarily suspended due to thunderstorms.
The incident occurred during the match between France and Iraqcorresponding to the group stage, when a storm forced the match to be stopped for several minutes. On that occasion, the security protocol also prioritized the protection of players and fans before allowing the game to resume.
That match ended with a French victory and was also marked because Kylian Mbappé equaled Miroslav Klose’s scoring record in the World Cups and took a new step towards Lionel Messi’s historical record.
Interruptions due to electrical activity respond to the protocols established by FIFA and local authorities, especially in venues where summer storms represent a risk for attendees.
The winner of the duel between Mexico and Ecuador will advance to the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, where they will face Morocco. Meanwhile, FIFA maintains constant monitoring of weather conditions and does not rule out further adjustments if the weather once again represents a risk for the development of the match.