Why is Mexico game delayed? Live World Cup weather updates vs Ecuador
USA Today • • sports
Key Points:
- The Mexico vs Ecuador World Cup match in Mexico City has been delayed by approximately one hour due to lightning in the area, with the new expected start time around 10 p.m. ET.
- The original kickoff was set for 9 p.m. ET at Estadio Azteca, but officials postponed the game to wait for lightning to pass, allowing time for player warmups and pregame ceremonies.
- Rain is expected in Mexico City until about 8 p.m. local time, and fans have remained in their seats during the delay, maintaining a positive atmosphere.
- FIFA does not have an official lightning delay policy, but typically enforces a 30-minute delay if lightning occurs within 8 to 10 miles of the stadium, with additional delays for subsequent strikes.
- Similar weather-related delays have occurred earlier in the World Cup, such as the two-hour halftime delay during the France-Iraq game due to lightning and heavy rain.
