FIFA Discusses Earlier Kickoff for England-Mexico World Cup Match Due to Storm Risk

FIFA is considering moving the kickoff of Sunday's World Cup round-of-16 match between England and Mexico to noon local time at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The shift would address the risk of afternoon thunderstorms and flooding, according to multiple reports citing people close to the discussions. The original schedule called for a 6:00 p.m.

Local start. A person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press that FIFA is examining an earlier time, though the source spoke on condition of anonymity because no final decision has been made. FIFA has not confirmed any adjustment.

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre opposed the potential change. "It’s a kick in the gut; now we must change everything," Aguirre told Radio Formula. "It’s not that all the work goes down the drain—though it’s close—because you’re having to scrap six hours of scheduled planning.

England is scheduled to arrive late Friday and train Saturday at the UNAM Pumas grounds in southern Mexico City. Estadio Azteca sits more than 7,300 feet above sea level. An earlier start would also affect the Norway-Brazil match later the same day at the same venue.

BBC News reported that the match is set to move to 19:00 BST. France 24 noted that local media reported the possible noon local time start, while ESPN cited sources indicating the kickoff time is likely to change due to weather disruption including flooding.