2026 World Cup: Fans told not to travel to France-Iraq match due to bad weather.

Fans were told not to travel to the Philadelphia stadium for Monday’s World Cup match between France and Iraq due to “inferior weather conditions”.

Heavy rain and thunder and lightning are forecast for the first leg of this World Cup 42nd match.

The match is scheduled for 17:00 local time (22:00 BST) and will be the first game to be delayed if not started on time at this World Cup.

Due to the weather, fans were told the gates would not open on time at the ground.

“Due to inclement weather in the region, opening gates will be delayed,” said a statement from Lincoln Financial Field, the name of the ground where the game is being played. He said on X., External

“If you are not in the area, please do not travel to Philadelphia Stadium at this time.

“Once the weather clears, new gates will be announced. If you are near Philadelphia Stadium, please take shelter.”

If lightning is detected within eight miles of the stadium, the game will be stopped for 30 minutes and there are rules requiring fans to be escorted to safe areas.

Heavy rain fell three hours before the start, but there is no word yet on whether the start will be delayed.