A World Cup match was delayed for nearly two hours on Monday due to heavy rain and thunderstorms, marking the first weather-related interruption of the tournament and the first midgame delay in several decades. The game between France and Iraq at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia was halted at halftime as a severe storm passed through the area.

The delay began as a downpour intensified during the first half, which France led 1-0. Spectators were initially advised to remain in their seats wearing ponchos, but as conditions worsened, stadium officials instructed fans to seek shelter in covered areas within the stadium. Messages on the scoreboard warned of an approaching severe storm, prompting thousands to gather under concourses and balconies for protection.

Originally, the halftime break was expected to be extended by an additional 15 minutes, but the stoppage continued for about 1 hour and 40 minutes. An announcement was made once the threat had passed, allowing players to return to the field to warm up ahead of resuming play, even as rain persisted.

The match interruption followed FIFA’s safety protocol, which mandates a pause of 30 minutes whenever lightning is detected within eight miles of the venue. Each subsequent lightning strike resets the 30-minute clock, effectively prolonging delays during intense storms.

Earlier in the day, MetLife Stadium in New Jersey also experienced heavy rainfall ahead of the scheduled Norway versus Senegal match, although play proceeded as planned.

Historically, FIFA matches have often continued despite severe weather conditions. Notably, a 2014 World Cup fixture between the United States and Germany in Brazil went on despite a torrential downpour that flooded parts of the surrounding city. By contrast, the current tournament’s first 11 days had seen no weather-related interruptions until Monday.

Outside the World Cup, weather delays are not uncommon. Last year’s Club World Cup held in the United States experienced six weather-related stoppages across 63 matches, lasting a total of over eight hours.

Officials emphasized that player and spectator safety remains a priority as storms become an increasingly frequent challenge for outdoor events.