Why Are Matches Delayed at the 2026 World Cup?

Scotland’s fans got to witness their team play in the World Cup for the first time in 28 years. Despite the nation’s first match in the 2026 World Cup starting nearly three minutes late, the supporters appeared largely unfazed. Scotland recorded their first World Cup win since the 1990 tournament in Italy by defeating Haiti 1-0. The ‘Tartan Army’ must surely feel that the long wait was well worth the sweet result. However, the delays observed in the Group C match held in Massachusetts represent a continuing trend where matches do not begin at the scheduled times.

None of the first eight matches of the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, kicked off exactly on time. On average, these games started about three minutes later than planned. Last Thursday, the opening match between Mexico and South Africa was delayed by six minutes, while on Saturday, the Qatar versus Switzerland game began approximately five minutes late. Matches between Australia and Turkey, and South Korea and the Czech Republic started within just one minute of the scheduled times.

FIFA has meticulously planned every detail before each match begins, preparing a detailed timetable specifying what happens and when. This ‘running order’ is also shared with media representatives. It clearly outlines when the teams and officials must be present in the tunnel, the exact moment they walk onto the pitch, and when the national anthems will be played, among other important details.

However, FIFA’s decisions regarding the elaborate pre-match ceremony might contribute to the delays. During the national anthem, not only players but the entire team staff stand together at the center of the field, and large flags are displayed on both sides of the pitch. FIFA regards this ceremony as “a moment of unity, pride, and emotion,” underscoring its significance.