FIFA make hydration break U-turn after storm delays Mexico v Ecuador kick-off in last 32 of 2026 World Cup

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Mexico’s last-32 clash with Ecuador at the 2026 World Cup was delayed due to thunderstorms around the Azteca Stadium, with the game kicking off an hour later than planned and still with hydration breaks following a FIFA U-turn.

General view inside the stadium as lightning is seen during a weather delay before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador at Mexico City Stadium

Image credit: Getty Images

The 2026 World Cup fixture in Mexico City was due to start at 02:00 UK time, but adverse weather in the area delayed proceedings.

Kick-off was pushed back after lightning flashed above the stadium and the sound of thunder crashed around.

The storm started around two hours before the match was scheduled to begin.

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Kick-off was at 03:00 and FIFA initially stated in their World Cup live blog that it would be played without hydration breaks.

However, the decision was quickly reversed and the game featured hydration breaks.

An updated statement from FIFA, which left out the original mention of the hydration breaks, said: "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 to 20.00 local time.

"The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA's priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation."

Despite the delay, spirits appeared high in the stands as fans, many wearing waterproof ponchos, danced in the rain.

The World Cup saw its first weather-related delay when France's 3-0 victory over Iraq in the group stage was suspended for over two hours due to severe weather warnings.

The game was paused at half-time due to heavy rain and a threat of thunderstorms in the area, eventually resuming when the weather had improved.

Although FIFA are the World Cup organisers, the protocols around electrical storms are not set by football's governing body.

The rules around matches being suspended are based upon the recommendations of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

According to NOAA guidelines, matches must be halted and suspended if lightning or electrical discharge is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium.

In that situation, players and staff will leave the field and go to the changing rooms, while fans are advised to find shelter inside the stadium.

For the game to restart, there must be no further lightning strikes detected within that eight-mile radius of the venue for a full 30 minutes.

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