FIFA's attempt to reschedule England's World Cup round-of-16 match against Mexico from 6pm to noon local time was driven primarily by concerns over fan safety, not weather forecasts, according to reports. The proposed change, which would have moved the kick-off to 7am BST, sparked widespread confusion and was ultimately abandoned after five and a half hours of discussions.
Fan safety concerns behind proposed change
According to The Athletic, discussions about moving the kick-off time began after Mexico's win over Ecuador in the last-32 stage, during which four home fans died in post-match celebrations. FIFA grew concerned that a later kick-off would allow fans to drink all day, increasing the risk of post-match incidents. The governing body had virtually confirmed the change internally but shelved it after public outcry, including strong opposition from Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre.
Public backlash and coach's reaction
Speaking to Radio Formula before FIFA reversed the decision, Aguirre said: 'This change feels like a kick in the stomach. Now we have to rethink everything. It's not like all the work we've done goes out the window, but it comes pretty close because we're losing six hours that were part of our entire matchday plan. I don't like it at all. Obviously, we'll comply with whatever FIFA decides, but neither my players nor I are happy about it. There's absolutely no advantage to playing at noon. None whatsoever. It really throws a wrench into everything.'
England forward Marcus Rashford described the proposed change as 'not ideal', while Morgan Rogers added: 'It's just another obstacle to overcome. We'll be ready regardless of the time.'
FIFA's initial justification and reversal
FIFA initially insisted that the change was considered due to forecasts of heavy thunderstorms and rain in the area during the match. Earlier in the tournament, Mexico's win against Ecuador was delayed by an hour due to thunderstorms around Azteca Stadium. However, the real reason emerged as fan safety concerns, with discussions accelerating after the post-match deaths.
Despite the internal confirmation, FIFA scrapped the plan after public outcry from teams, fans, and broadcasters. The match will now proceed as originally scheduled at 6pm local time (1am Monday BST).
Security measures and fan behavior
England's team has arrived in Mexico City and were booed by home fans as their bus entered the hotel. Roadblocks and increased security are expected around the hotel after Mexican fans kept Ecuador's players awake the night before their last-32 game using car horns, motorcycles, and loudspeakers. Ecuador submitted a complaint to FIFA after their 2-0 defeat.
