Mexico v England: What is the lightning safety rule for the World Cup?

Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico – July 5, 2026 A Mexico fan covers herself from the rain outside the stadium before the match (Reuters)
  • A shelter-in-place order was issued for the Mexico v England World Cup last-16 match at Azteca Stadium due to thunderstorms in the area.
  • During the alert, people on the pitch moved to tunnels, stadium screens warned of severe weather, and fans sought refuge as displays advised them to take their seats.
  • World Cup matches are subject to local lightning safety rules, which mandate the suspension of play if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium.
  • Play can only resume after a 30-minute clear period without further lightning strikes, with any new strike resetting this countdown.
  • FIFA considered bringing the match forward but ultimately maintained the original kickoff time, despite concerns and a previous match involving Mexico being delayed due to rain.
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