The looming threat that could derail England's 2026 World Cup preparations | OneFootball

England have arrived in the United States to begin their 2026 World Cup build-up, but extreme weather could disrupt plans this summer.

They will spend a week in West Palm Beach, training around friendlies against New Zealand in Tampa Bay and Costa Rica in Orlando. According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, the camp reportedly lacks full indoor facilities, leaving them exposed if conditions worsen.

The forecast for the early days, including Saturday’s game at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, currently looks clear. The outlook turns riskier next week as England prepare for Costa Rica.

New Zealand’s friendly with Haiti was delayed 36 minutes by storms, and matches at last summer’s Club World Cup in the United States were also paused. Chelsea against Benfica was halted for around two hours, and FIFA stops play indefinitely in dangerous weather to avoid rescheduling in an expanded 48-team calendar.

Even if the friendlies proceed, outdoor sessions in West Palm Beach could be stopped while storms pass. Forecasts point to several days of showers, high humidity and temperatures above 30C.

After Florida, England will base themselves in Kansas City. Forecasters warn an El Niño could begin within weeks, heightening the risk of severe storms and hurricanes. The UN has urged countries to prepare, though timing and impact remain uncertain.

Disruption could arrive for the opener between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa on 11 July. Meteorologist Alex Duffus sees a growing chance of rain and thunderstorms around Mexico City, with tropical moisture that could develop.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk