The football match in Philadelphia was the first instance of a game being halted due to adverse weather conditions. This article explains the procedures in such scenarios, referencing a previous case of Chelsea vs. Benfica in last year’s Club World Cup.
In the event of a match being suspended due to severe weather, such as lightning, FIFA’s regulations dictate the course of action. The primary concern is always the safety of the players, officials, and spectators.
When conditions become dangerous, the referee has the authority to temporarily suspend the match. The players are typically asked to leave the field and return to their locker rooms. The duration of the suspension depends on the severity and persistence of the weather.
If the adverse weather subsides and the field is deemed safe, the game will resume from the point at which it was stopped, with the same players and score. However, if the weather conditions prevent the match from being completed on the same day, it may be rescheduled or continued the following day, or at a later date, as determined by FIFA and the competition organizers.
A notable precedent occurred during last year’s Club World Cup, where the match between Chelsea and Benfica was also suspended due to a lightning storm. This highlights that while rare, weather-related interruptions are a possibility in major tournaments.
The regulations aim to ensure fairness and the integrity of the competition while prioritizing the well-being of all involved. The decision to suspend, resume, or reschedule a match ultimately rests with the match officials and the relevant footballing authorities.