The real reason FIFA nearly rescheduled Mexico vs. England after storm warning claims

FIFA almost brought forward England's Round of 16 clash with Mexico at the 2026 World Cup by six hours, but ultimately decided against making the move.

The game will now start at 6pm local time on Sunday as originally scheduled, which means fans in England will have to wait until 1am on Monday for kick-off.

FIFA ‘concerned over fan safety'

It was originally claimed that FIFA were considering moving the match due to concerns over the weather, with the potential for storms and even flooding affecting the game.

However, a new report from the Athletic states that weather was not the ‘key' reason behind the potential move.

Instead, it is claimed that FIFA were more concerned about the safety of fans following the deaths of four Mexico supporters during the celebrations of their Round of 32 victory over Ecuador.

FIFA were said to view avoiding a similar incident occurring in the aftermath of Mexico vs. England as their ‘highest priority' and felt that an earlier kick-off time would make things much safer.

FIFA's view was that a late kick-off time would allow fans to spend more time drinking and partying ahead of the game, increasing the risk of another incident.

However, they ultimately decided to stick to the original plan following pushback from the Mexico and England teams.

Mexico manager Javier Aguirre told radio station Grupo Formula: “We have to change everything. It's not that [Mexico's preparation] is completely ruined but almost, because you have to swallow six hours that you had programmed. Obviously we will comply with FIFA. I don't like it at all, and neither do my players.

“They didn't even ask for my opinion. FIFA organises, FIFA decides, and I comply. We adapt, there are no excuses, and we have to play and win.”

FGG says: A chaotic build-up for a key World Cup game

After a truly chaotic period of uncertainty over the game's start time, we do now have confirmation that it will be kicking off as originally planned.

The fact that FIFA were willing to reschedule it at such short notice, given the logistical challenges that poses, shows just how concerned they must be about fan safety.

Hopefully, the game can now take place without any issues whatsoever.

If you want to find out more about the tournament, be sure to check out our comprehensive 2026 World Cup betting guide.