Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterThe 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.Play our free match predictor and win �1kFrance vs Iraq delayed by two hours and 15 minutes in PhiladelphiaFrance 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. You may like France vs Iraq plunged into weather chaos - what are the World Cup 2026 weather protocols? Why was the second half of France vs Iraq delayed? FIFA prepares weather disruption measures as forecasted storms threaten France vs Iraq clash 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.Get the FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.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.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.TOPICSFranceWorld CupWorld Cup 2026Chris NeeChris is a Warwickshire-based freelance football writer specialising in West Midlands football, the Premier League, the EFL and the J.League. He is the author of the High Protein Beef Paste football newsletter and owner of Aston Villa Review. He supports Coventry Sphinx.
