World Cup 2026: France vs Norway threatened by weather, FIFA responds

26.06.26 FT World Cup

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Just like in the France vs Iraq match, the weather could once again play spoiler at the 2026 World Cup. Thunderstorms are forecast right at kickoff time for France vs Norway, prompting FIFA to remind everyone of the strict safety protocols in place in the United States.

Weather concerns are looming over the final day of group play at the 2026 World Cup. Thunderstorms are indeed expected this Friday evening at the same time as France vs Norway kicks off (9:00 p.m.), reigniting worries about the American weather protocol. Local regulations require that any match be halted as soon as lightning is detected within a 13-kilometer radius of the stadium, with a minimum suspension period of 30 minutes. This rule already disrupted the France vs Iraq game earlier in the tournament.

Read also: World Cup 2026 – Algeria: Medhi Lacen takes aim at Vladimir Petkovic

Speaking to RMC Sport, FIFA sought to reassure fans. The organization reminded that "in accordance with the regulations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the final round of group matches is scheduled with simultaneous kick-off times and the safety of all participants and spectators will be the top priority."

Therefore, any possible interruption in Kansas City would have no impact on matches played simultaneously in other stadiums. This principle of fairness is maintained on paper, but there remains a real area of uncertainty if there is a significant delay between two matches in the same group.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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