France vs Iraq resumes after two-hour weather delay at the World Cup

The World Cup 2026 match between France and Iraq in Group I has resumed after a weather break of around two hours and 15 minutes.

France vs Iraq was delayed at half time, with the second half not beginning as planned. The second period would typically have started around 11:00pm UK time (6:00pm local) but storms in the area forced the stoppage.

As the match restarted at 1:00am UK (8:00pm local), it was confirmed that the second half hydration break will not be taking place. France vs Iraq will be the first World Cup 2026 match without a hydration break in both periods.

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France vs Iraq delayed by two hours and 15 minutes in Philadelphia

France and Iraq completed the first half before the delays were implemented (Image credit: Getty Images)

France led 1-0 at half time thanks to a powerful left-footed drive from Kylian Mbappe. The captain's 15th World Cup goal put him three behind new all-time top World Cup goalscorer Lionel Messi, who took sole ownership of the record in Argentina's win over Austria.

Without further weather delays or a hydration break, the match will be completed before 2:00am and Mbappe will hope to be a goal or two closer to the record by full time.

Lincoln Financial Field (Image credit: Getty Images)

Sport fans in the United States are used to matches being delayed by thunderstorms. Major League Soccer frequently experiences unplanned pauses in play on safety grounds and the World Cup is subject to the same requirements.

Weather delays at World Cup venues without a roof, such as the very exposed Lincoln Financial Field, where France vs Iraq is being played, trigger a protocol that require the pitch and the stands to be vacated.

The geographical radius varies but lightning within 10 miles or so can cause a match to be stopped for a minimum of 30 minutes, a 15-minute period without lightning in the area and 15 minutes for the players to warm up again as water is cleared off the pitch.

If lightning is detected in the area during that spell, the delay begins again.

The challenge faced by the teams could change the timbre of the second half but delays were expected at the World Cup and preparations should be in place for that eventuality.

Kylian Mbappe tries to control the ball in wet conditions (Image credit: Getty Images)

France vs Iraq was subject to a weather threat before kick-off.

Similar concerns hung over Norway vs Senegal in the group's other game, which also kicked off at 1:00am UK time.