England’s clash with Mexico in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 will kick off as originally scheduled at 01:00 BST on Monday after FIFA reversed plans to move the fixture to an earlier time.
Football’s governing body had opened discussions with the English and Mexican football associations about bringing the match forward to 19:00 BST on Sunday (12:00 local time). The proposed change was linked to forecasts of possible thunderstorms in Mexico City, although FIFA did not provide an official explanation for the proposal.
Following objections from both football associations, the match will now be played at its original time of 18:00 local time (01:00 BST Monday) at the Estadio Azteca.
Opposition from England and Mexico
According to reports, FIFA had been preparing to confirm the rescheduling before both the Football Association (FA) and the Mexican Football Federation raised concerns.
The FA requested additional time to assess the weather forecast, while discussions also focused on the impact an earlier kick-off would have on player preparation, supporters’ travel arrangements and the logistical challenges of changing a major World Cup fixture at short notice.
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FIFA regulations for the 2026 World Cup give the governing body the authority to “cancel, reschedule or relocate” matches at its discretion. However, after consultations, it decided to keep the fixture unchanged.
England players unfazed
England’s preparations continued as normal despite uncertainty over the kick-off time.
The FA initially received no indication that the match was under review before FIFA informed officials it was considering a change while the England squad was completing training at its Kansas City base.
England winger Marcus Rashford said the proposed change would not affect the team’s approach.
“I think for us it’s the same as how we prepare for the game. It has to be the same.”
Morgan Rogers added, “We’ll be ready regardless of the time. We’re looking forward to it whatever the time is.”
Mexico coach criticises proposal
Before FIFA confirmed the original kick-off time, Mexico coach Javier Aguirre criticised the proposed adjustment, describing it as disruptive.
“We have to change everything. It’s not that our preparation is completely ruined but almost, because you have to swallow six hours that you had programmed.”
Aguirre said neither he nor his players had been consulted before the proposal.
“They didn’t even ask for my opinion. FIFA organises, FIFA decides, and I comply. We adapt, there are no excuses, and we have to play and win.”
Weather remains a concern
Weather has been a recurring issue throughout the expanded 2026 World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
FIFA introduced mandatory hydration breaks because of high temperatures, while several matches have also been delayed due to thunderstorms, including Mexico’s previous knockout tie against Ecuador and France’s group-stage match against Iraq.
Meteorologists expect a high risk of thunderstorms in Mexico City on Sunday, with lightning and hail possible during the late afternoon and evening. While a midday kick-off could have reduced the likelihood of severe storms, forecasters said it would not have eliminated the risk entirely.
Altitude challenge remains
Beyond the weather, England’s preparations have also focused on the altitude at the Estadio Azteca, which sits 2,240 metres (7,220 feet) above sea level.
The thinner air at that elevation can reduce oxygen intake, increasing heart rate, dehydration and fatigue, even among elite athletes.
Mexico have historically enjoyed a formidable record at the stadium, losing only twice in 89 matches there, adding another challenge for England in the last-16 encounter.
