Mexico left fuming over England match kick-off change as boss speaks out in opposition to FIFA
The World Cup 2026 clash between England and Mexico is set to be moved forward by six hours due to the threat of storms, with the kick-off time change causing fury among both teams
Javier Aguirre is not happy with Mexico potentially having their match against England moved(Image: Getty Images)
Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre is livid over the potential rescheduling of their World Cup clash with England. The match could be brought forward by six hours from its originally scheduled kick-off time of 1am BST, which equates to 6pm local time in Mexico City.
However, due to looming storms and adverse weather conditions, including a risk of flooding, it is reported that the start time will be shifted to 7pm (UK time) on Sunday evening, or midday in Mexico City.
Tournament safety regulations stipulate that any lightning strikes within eight miles of the stadium trigger an automatic half-hour delay to play.
Advancing the kick-off by six hours should bypass the worst of the weather, reducing the likelihood of interruptions. Not everyone is pleased with the alteration, though, with Aguirre arguing that he’ll need to adjust his strategy accordingly.
Speaking to radio station Grupo Formula, he expressed: “Like a kick in the stomach because clearly you change everything, the game plan, everything.
“Not that everything goes down the drain, but almost because you’re changing six hours. I don’t like it at all, but evidently, we will abide by what FIFA says. But I especially don’t like any of it, and neither do my players.”
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Aguirre revealed that he was notified of the change by FIFA on Friday afternoon. The governing body has yet to publicly confirm their decision or formally announce a new kick-off time.
“Not a minor change, the change is important,” added the Mexico boss. “I can understand their reasoning and arguments, but nobody consulted me. I’m very upset.”
England are also thought to be seething over the alteration, with rumours indicating that the Football Association (FA) were not consulted. The FA are believed to be worried about the effect the rescheduled kick-off time will have on fans and the logistics for Thomas Tuchel’s team.
Tournament rules stipulate that FIFA has the authority to “cancel, reschedule or relocate” matches “at its sole discretion.”
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