FIFA considering Mexico vs England start time change in unprecedented decision

The start time of the World Cup last 16 clash between Mexico and England at Estadio Azteca is set to be changed by FIFA, it has been reported.

England fans watching from the UK have been preparing for an overnight 1am kick-off, with the UK government allowing pubs to remain open until 5am.

But concerns over the weather emerged on Friday, with the Met Office forecasting potential thunderstorms to begin an hour before kick-off, and between 5pm and 7pm local time in Mexico City.

READ MORE: England vs Mexico could be delayed as nightmare pub scenario for fans emerges

And it is now being reported by BBC Sport that the start time is set to be moved back due to the threat of storms, with FIFA considering whether to make what would be an unprecedented decision.

It was originally claimed that one suggestion is to move it as far back as 12pm local time, which would be 7pm UK time, with the BBC now reporting that this is indeed anticipated to be the time that is chosen.

The possibility of a start time change was initially reported by local media in Mexico, with Claro Sports claiming that the change was to be made due to 'the risk of a thunderstorm'.

FIFA are yet to officially comment or confirm the exact reason behind the expected start time change.

It was initially reported by The Sun that the Football Association (FA) were informed of a kick-off time change by FIFA on Friday, though Sky News say that is not yet the case.

SPORTbible have contacted FIFA and the FA for comment but are yet to receive a response.

Why Mexico vs England start time could be changed

On several occasions during the World Cup so far, there have been major issues prompted by thunderstorms both in the United States and Mexico.

The second half of the group stage match between France and Iraq was delayed by around two hours due to inclement weather, with US government protocols mandating that outdoor activities must be suspended for 30 minutes after each lightning strike.

That applies to a lightning strike radius of between eight and 10 miles outside the hosting stadium.

There is precedent in Mexico, too, with kick-off for their round of 32 clash against Ecuador being delayed by an hour. Despite the delay, two hydration breaks were completed as in other World Cup matches.

But while the apparent change in kick-off time will certainly benefit those watching at home, that likely won't be the case for England and manager Thomas Tuchel in one particular regard.

Temperatures in Mexico City are forecast at 22 degrees for the expected new kick-off time of 12pm, while they could hit as high as 25 degrees by 2pm - which would be significant in the case of the game going to extra time or penalties.

With a 7pm kick-off time, the temperature would have been slightly cooler at a stable 20 degrees Celsius.