Kylian Mbappé had already put France ahead in the 14th minute, but by half-time the Group I clash with Iraq became the first match of the 2026 World Cup to be halted by severe weather. Torrential rain and thunderstorms that had been forecast hours earlier finally forced officials to suspend proceedings, triggering a mass evacuation of the Philadelphia Stadium.
Four hours before kick-off, a statement from the Lincoln Financial Field — the venue's official name — posted on X warned fans not to travel. “Due to inclement weather in the region, gates opening will be delayed,” it said. “If you are not in the area, please do not travel to Philadelphia Stadium at this time.” Heavy downpours and bouts of thunder and lightning were expected for the 42nd match of the tournament, but the shower passed and gates opened two and a half hours before the scheduled 17:00 local time (22:00 BST) start.
“France vs Iraq became the first World Cup match suspended by storms after lightning struck near the stadium at half-time.”
The match kicked off as planned and survived the first half despite a relentless downpour. But as the weather system intensified and lightning activity was detected nearby, safety protocols kicked in. Under strict US regulations that FIFA must follow, any lightning within an eight-mile radius of a World Cup stadium triggers an immediate suspension of play. The rules also require a 30-minute pause and for fans to be escorted to safe areas.
Stadium scoreboards flashed severe-weather warnings, instructing thousands of poncho-clad spectators to evacuate the open bowl and take shelter in covered concourses and balconies. No game had been impacted by storms earlier in the tournament, but the escalating electrical activity left officials with no choice. The match was suspended at half-time with France leading 1-0 — whether it would resume later was not immediately clear.