UPDATE 4.20PM PT: Recent updates from both the BBC and various Mexican media sources, who have confirmed with FIFA, indicate that the England vs. Mexico match will proceed at its originally scheduled time. There had been an initial attempt by FIFA to change the kickoff time, which caused considerable upset within the England and Mexican teams. Things are now back to status quo.
UPDATE: 3PM PT: Pause for thought. Following displeasure expressed by the English and Mexican Football Associations, it appears FIFA might retract its earlier decision to adjust the kickoff time for the upcoming England-Mexico match. The BBC has revised its earlier reports, stating that FIFA was on the brink of announcing a new time but is currently engaged in discussions with the involved teams. This development follows initial reports from numerous top Mexican sports news outlets and the BBC, which broadcasts the match in the UK. Even the Mexican coach was under the impression that the game time had been altered, according to a local media interview. The situation now remains quite fluid, with updates pending from various reporters covering the story. The scenario is complex and still evolving.
EARLIER: 12:30pm PT: The eagerly awaited World Cup round-of-16 match between England and Mexico in Mexico City this Sunday is likely to have an earlier kickoff time due to anticipated stormy weather.
Originally set for 6 p.m. local time on Sunday, the BBC, following initial local reports, now suggests that the game may start at midday. Confirmation from FIFA is still pending. Several national media sources have noted ongoing discussions between FIFA and the representatives from England and Mexico regarding the time shift.
This change in schedule could significantly impact broadcasters, fans, and even pubs throughout England, which were authorized by the UK government to remain open all night on Sunday. This decision, however, has raised concerns among police authorities.
For UK fans and BBC television executives, the new proposed kickoff time of 7 p.m. local time is welcome news. There had been worries about the late original starting time, but the revised schedule would likely boost viewership significantly, given that the BBC holds the broadcasting rights. The most recent match featuring England, a round-of-32 victory against DR Congo, attracted a peak audience of 16.3 million viewers, the highest for the year.
In the U.S., the match will be broadcast on Fox, Fox One, and the Fox Sports app, with Spanish commentary available on Telemundo and Peacock. The proposed new kickoff time would be 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT, aligning with reports from Mexican sources and the BBC.
Brazil’s upcoming last-16 match against Norway, also scheduled for Sunday, is set for a 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT start at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. However, there are discussions about possibly delaying this game by an hour. This adjustment could be due to weather concerns or to prevent a clash with the England-Mexico game, though FIFA has yet to provide confirmation. It’s common for U.S. broadcasters and the NFL to delay the start of major NFL games if there’s an overlap, to ensure audiences and advertisers do not miss out.
During this World Cup, a group-stage match between France and Iraq was delayed by over two hours due to safety concerns caused by severe weather in Philadelphia. According to FIFA regulations, the organization holds the authority to “cancel, reschedule, or relocate” matches based on its sole discretion.
Mexico has performed exceptionally well in this year’s tournament, remaining unbeaten through four games and not conceding any goals. England, however, has shown inconsistent performance but will be a significant challenge for the co-hosts.
We will continue to provide updates on any FIFA confirmations regarding the match schedule as they become available.
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