FIFA Tightens Weather Protocols for 2026 World Cup in US, Canada, Mexico

FIFA has introduced stricter weather safety measures ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament will feature 48 national teams for the first time and run longer than any previous edition in the event's history. The governing body implemented new protocols during the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States, where some matches stretched to approximately two hours instead of the standard 90 minutes. According to Le Parisien newspaper, matches will be suspended immediately when lightning is detected within a 13-kilometer radius of the pitch. Players cannot return to the field until 30 minutes after the last lightning activity. The protocol does not specify a definitive timeframe for match cancellations due to lightning or unexpected weather conditions. FIFA officials said they will monitor weather conditions in real time and are prepared to activate emergency protocols as needed. Weather-related challenges have become a priority concern for the organization, which co-hosted the expanded World Cup across three nations.