Club World Cup Storm Delays Forecasted for FIFA World Cup 2026 USA, Canada, Mexico

The 2025 Club World Cup in the United States has faced multiple weather disruptions, including severe thunderstorms and extreme heat, causing significant delays in at least six matches. Chelsea's last-16 game against Benfica was notably suspended for nearly two hours due to lightning threats, extending the match to almost five hours and drawing criticism from Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca, who questioned the suitability of the U.S. as a host for such tournaments. Weather experts, including National Weather Service official Ben Schott, warn that the extreme heat and storm conditions experienced are typical for U.S. summers and are likely to recur during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The International Journal of Biometeorology study highlights that 14 of the 16 World Cup host cities frequently exceed safe heat stress thresholds, prompting calls to schedule games outside peak afternoon heat. Despite safety protocols mandating suspensions when lightning is detected within 13 kilometers, these interruptions have led to frustration among teams, officials, and fans, raising concerns about the impact of weather on the tournament's flow and player safety. Organizers, including the National Weather Service working with FIFA, are actively planning for these challenges ahead of the 2026 World Cup to mitigate disruptions and protect participants.