A lengthy weather-related stoppage during Saudi Arabia’s World Cup warm-up match against Puerto Rico has raised fresh concerns about the potential impact of thunderstorms on matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
The international friendly at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, was suspended in the 21st minute after lightning strikes were detected near the venue, forcing players off the pitch and spectators to seek shelter.
The match remained halted for almost two hours before play eventually resumed, with Saudi Arabia going on to secure a 3-0 victory.
Weather threat emerges before tournament kickoff
The incident comes just days before the start of the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11.
Several host cities in the United States are currently entering the peak of their thunderstorm season, increasing the possibility of weather-related disruptions during the tournament.