Fan entry for France v Iraq delayed as storms threaten two World Cup games
Fans are seen in the rain before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Iraq at Philadelphia Stadium on June 22, 2026 (Getty Images)
World Cup organisers postponed the opening of gates at Philadelphia Stadium Monday due to seveere weather conditions ahead of the France v Iraq match.
Fans were advised not to travel to the venue if they were not already nearby, and those in the vicinity were instructed to seek shelter while officials monitored the situation.
Gates opened after a 40-minute delay but the bad weather could trigger more delays tonight, including during Norway v Senegal in New Jersey.
Strict US lightning safety regulations mandate the suspension of play if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of a stadium.
Under these protocols, play can only resume after a 30-minute clear period, with any new lightning strike resetting the countdown, potentially leading to lengthy delays as there is no fixed time limit for match abandonment.
