Thunderstorms force shelter order at Azteca Stadium hours before England face Mexico

Thunderstorms hit Mexico City on Sunday, prompting a shelter-in-place order at the Estadio Azteca hours before England’s World Cup last-16 match against Mexico, scheduled for a 1am UK kick-off. FIFA confirmed the order, with ground staff asked to move into the tunnel as a warning of severe approaching weather appeared on the stadium’s screens.

Despite forecasts putting the probability of thunderstorms at 80% for 5pm local time and 60% at 6pm, FIFA have so far opted against bringing the kick-off forward. The decision leaves the fixture vulnerable to a weather delay: under tournament protocols, play cannot begin until 30 minutes have elapsed since lightning was last detected within an eight-mile radius of the venue — a rule that has already caused a delay at an earlier match in the competition.

The Estadio Azteca presents England with challenges beyond the weather. The stadium sits at high altitude, a factor supporters and observers have pointed to as a significant physical test for Gareth Southgate’s squad.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer added his voice to proceedings on Sunday, expressing confidence in the England team ahead of the tie. He also noted that extended pub licensing hours had been granted to allow fans across the country to watch the late kick-off.