Brazil and Scotland Match in Miami Faces Possible Lightning Delays

Brazil and Scotland are set to close out Group C at the 2026 World Cup in Miami overnight Wednesday to Thursday at 1:00 a.m., but the match could be interrupted or postponed because of severe weather. Forecasts call for temperatures around 32 degrees Celsius at kickoff, cloudy skies, and a significant chance of rain, along with a 30 percent risk of thunderstorms and lightning.

If lightning is detected within 13 kilometers of the stadium, U.S. protocol requires play to stop immediately. The match can resume only after 30 minutes without any lightning in that radius. Because repeated strikes can keep resetting the clock, delays could last for hours, and FIFA has no fixed time limit, instead deciding each case individually.

If the disruption lasts more than a few hours, the game is expected to be pushed back by 24 hours. The U.S. procedure is based on guidance from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. During such stoppages, spectators are moved to safe shelter areas in the stadium while players go to the locker room.

FIFA cannot override the American safety protocol. With a 48-team World Cup schedule already tight, even one postponement could create a significant logistical problem.