E-Paper
Why is Mexico vs Ecuador delayed and when will the Round of 32 match start? FIFA issues official update
Morning rain in Mexico City raised concerns over whether the Mexico vs Ecuador Round of 32 match would go ahead as planned.
The Round of 32 clash between Mexico and Ecuador has been delayed due to adverse weather conditions at the scheduled venue, Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Concerns had already been raised earlier in the day after morning rainfall across the city, with uncertainty growing over whether the match would proceed as planned.
Delayed due to adverse weather
The game was originally set to kick off at 9pm ET (6pm local time), but had still not begun as of 9:20pm ET at the time of reporting.
FIFA issued an official update via its X account confirming the delay:
“KICK-OFF DELAY: M79
Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including risk caused by lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the kick-off of the FIFA World Cup round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador has been delayed.
FIFA will follow the safety protocols established by the local authorities, and the match will start as soon as it is safe to do so. The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA’s priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation.”
However, broadcast footage later showed players on the pitch and doing warm-ups.
When will the match start?
As per broadcast updates, the match is now expected to kick off at 10pm ET after the initial delay.
The National Meteorological Service had already warned of unstable weather conditions across the Valley of Mexico, forecasting cloudy skies and heavy rainfall in both Mexico City and the State of Mexico.
The outlook also included the potential for thunderstorms, lightning activity, and hail during the course of the day.
FIFA weather protocol explained
FIFA rules state that rain alone is not a valid reason to suspend a match. Games are only delayed, paused, or rescheduled when weather conditions create risks for players, spectators, or staff, or when the pitch becomes unsuitable for play.
Officials may stop a match if there is lightning, severe thunderstorms, significant flooding on the field, or unsafe conditions around the stadium that disrupt access or security.
If rainfall does not affect safety or the quality of the playing surface, the match is generally allowed to continue as planned.
