Strict Weather Rules at World Cup: Lightning Threatens Hours-Long Match Suspensions

In the southern United States, for instance in Dallas where the Netherlands is set to face Japan, various weather warnings are in effect. Extreme heat and a high probability of severe thunderstorms are prevalent. While FIFA doesn't dictate the protocol, it defers to local authorities. In the United States, no risks are taken regarding the safety of players and fans, leading to swift suspensions of sporting events. It's "storm season" in parts of the US and Mexico, making it quite possible that the following scenarios could unfold.

The World Cup will be no exception. At last year's Club World Cup, also held in the US, several matches were temporarily halted when thunderstorms approached the stadiums. A match between Chelsea and Benfica had to be suspended and ultimately concluded 4.5 hours after the initial whistle. The protocol mandates that a match must be stopped if lightning is detected within an eight-mile (approximately thirteen-kilometer) radius of the stadium where the game is being played.

When such a situation arises, a timer of at least thirty minutes begins. With each new lightning strike, this timer resets until thirty minutes have passed without any further lightning. Only then can the match resume. When a suspension begins, all players must leave the field, and all fans must evacuate the stands. Should delays be so extensive that matches or parts of them must be permanently abandoned, that decision is made based on an assessment of whether spectators can safely return home.

Consideration can then be given to resuming matches, for example, the following day. For FIFA, this would create enormous logistical headaches, particularly in the final group stage matches. These games are played simultaneously to prevent match-fixing or collusive draws. However, if one match in the same group is (temporarily) suspended while another continues, that delicate balance is immediately disrupted.