Concerns are growing over severe weather conditions in Mexico City ahead of the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with forecasts predicting heavy rain and thunderstorms on the day co-host Mexico begins the tournament against South Africa.
While several teams are enjoying favourable conditions during their preparations, tournament organisers in Mexico are monitoring a challenging weather situation that could affect travel, logistics and fan movement around the city.
The opening match, scheduled for Thursday at the iconic stadium in Mexico City, will launch the expanded World Cup, which features 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Weather forecasts indicate further heavy rainfall and thunderstorms throughout the week, while reports have also warned that a cyclone could develop off Mexico’s Pacific coast.
The contrast with other World Cup venues is significant. The Swiss national team, currently based in San Diego, has benefited from warm temperatures and clear skies during training. Switzerland’s preparations have proceeded without disruption, and similar weather conditions are expected for their opening group-stage match against Qatar in San Francisco.
In Mexico City, however, recent storms have already caused disruption. Torrential rain has led to flooding in several areas, affecting roads and public transportation networks. Some metro services have experienced interruptions, while access to certain stations has been temporarily restricted due to safety concerns.
Authorities have repeatedly urged residents and visitors to exercise caution during periods of heavy rainfall.
Mexico City’s Secretariat for Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection has issued orange weather alerts on multiple occasions in recent days, advising people to avoid flooded roads and secure outdoor objects that could become hazardous during strong storms.
Beyond weather concerns, organisers are also preparing for potential disruptions caused by social demonstrations.
Teachers have continued protests related to pension reform, while truck drivers and farming groups have reportedly planned blockades in parts of the country during the World Cup period. Families of more than 130,000 missing persons in Mexico are also expected to use the global spotlight of the tournament to raise awareness of their cause.
Despite the challenges, preparations for the opening match continue, with officials hoping weather conditions improve before kickoff. As Mexico gets ready to host its third World Cup opening match after the tournaments of 1970 and 1986, attention is focused not only on football but also on the conditions surrounding the biggest sporting event in the world.
