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Why World Cup games are starting late
How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
100% centerFirst reported by N12 · Jun 16, 2026
Center 2
What happened
World Cup 2026 matches are increasingly kicking off late because of a longer pregame ceremony, especially the midfield walkout and anthem routine. FIFA is considering adjustments, but major changes may not come until the next round of group matches.
- 01World Cup 2026 games are starting minutes late because of expanded pregame ceremonies.
- 02The opening match began six minutes late, and several others were delayed by about two to five minutes.
- 03FIFA’s midfield walkout, anthem requirements, and handshakes add time before kickoff.
- 04FIFA has dropped one pilot, but may change the order of pregame events.
- 05Any impact of changes may appear in the second round of the group stage.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
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