Concerns over adverse weather conditions have prompted FIFA to study moving the kickoff time of the Mexico vs England round-of-16 match at the 2026 World Cup, scheduled at Azteca Stadium, with expectations that the game could be shifted from 6 p.m. to 12 p.m. local time.
FIFA is discussing a change to the match time due to the possibility of severe weather disruptions in the Mexican capital, including heavy rain and flooding, with Mexican media reporting that the game may kick off at noon instead of 6 p.m.
FIFA has not confirmed these reports so far, and the Football Association has not received any official notification of the change, even though fewer than 48 hours remain before the match.
The discussions came after Mexico's round-of-32 match against Ecuador earlier this week was postponed due to rain, prompting tournament officials to review the upcoming fixture's timing to avoid a repeat of the situation.
Moving the kickoff earlier would change playing conditions for both sides, as the match would take place under direct sunlight and at higher temperatures compared with the evening conditions originally scheduled.
Weather forecasts showed temperatures in Mexico City could range between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius at midday, with elevated UV index levels, although the capital's altitude gives it a more moderate climate than other host cities.
The altitude of Azteca Stadium, which sits approximately 2,200 metres above sea level, adds to the difficulty of the match. Sports medicine experts confirm that the reduced air density lowers oxygen availability, accelerates fatigue, and makes it harder for players unaccustomed to such conditions to sustain high-intensity running.
This could give Mexico an advantage, as the team has played 3 of its 4 matches in the tournament at Azteca Stadium, and its players are accustomed to living and training at altitude.
England manager Thomas Tuchel had previously acknowledged that Mexico enjoy a "significant advantage," stressing that his side does not have enough time to physically acclimatise before the knockout fixture.
Marcus Rashford said England would maintain their preparations regardless of when the match kicks off, telling reporters in Kansas: "For us, the way we prepare won't change. We have to stay focused and be ready for anything — that's one of the strengths of the group, both the players and the staff. We're ready for any challenges. Obviously it's not ideal, but it doesn't matter either."
England midfielder Morgan Rogers said the potential change would not affect the team's preparations, adding: "I don't think it really affects us. We'll be ready regardless of when the game is — maybe the earlier the better because we want to play the game. We're looking forward to it whatever the time is, and we'll be ready."