England v Mexico World Cup 2026 kick-off kept after FIFA rethink | OneFootball

England’s last 16 meeting with Mexico will kick off at the original time after FIFA considered a late rescheduling. The tie in Mexico City remains set for one am UK time on Monday.

Concerns over potential storms had prompted talks about moving the match forward by six hours to a seven pm start. Nottinghamshire Live reported England were irritated to be kept in the dark, having learned of the proposed switch via media coverage.

Under safety protocols, play must be delayed for 30 minutes if lightning is detected within eight miles, with the countdown restarting after each strike. FIFA’s regulations permit the governing body to cancel, reschedule or relocate matches at its discretion for force majeure or health, safety and security reasons.

Mexico boss Javier Aguirre said: “That’s right, it’s like a kick in the gut, it changes everything, the plan. Obviously, we will abide by what FIFA says. I don’t like it at all, nor do my players.” He was speaking to Radio Formula.

Marcus Rashford said preparation would remain the same and the squad had to be ready for anything, accepting the situation was not ideal.

FIFA has now kept the original schedule. The unchanged timing means Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s extension of pub opening hours until five am will benefit the hospitality sector, with the unusual start time set to generate a distinctive atmosphere and substantial revenue.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk