FIFA Delays Mexico-Ecuador Match 1 Hour to 10 p.m. ET as Lightning Hits Mexico City
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jul 1
FIFA Delays Mexico-Ecuador Match 1 Hour to 10 p.m. ET as Lightning Hits Mexico City
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 1
Summary
Kickoff for Mexico’s World Cup round-of-32 match against Ecuador was pushed back to 10 p.m. ET from 9 p.m. after FIFA cited adverse weather and lightning near Estadio Azteca.
Lightning strikes around the stadium halted pre-match warmups, and FIFA said safety was the priority while confirming the revised 8 p.m. local start time.
FIFA also said there will be no hydration breaks during the match, an unusual detail included in the delay announcement.
The delay extends disruption already reported before the original start, with fans inside the stadium initially told only to remain in their seats as the storm eased.