ENGLAND VS MEXICO DELAYED AS THUNDERSTORMS HIT MEXICO CITY

 

A general view of a match delay notice on the big screen ahead of the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match at Mexico City Stadium, Mexico. Picture date: Sunday July 5, 2026 (Image: Martin Rickett)

Thunderstorms have hit Mexico City in the build-up to England’s World Cup clash against Mexico, as the kick-off time is pushed back to 2am for UK viewers.

The game will start in the early hours of Monday morning UK time after governing body Fifa opted not to go ahead with a proposal to move it forward six hours to avoid disruption from forecast thunderstorms.

Mexico’s weather service said there would be an 80% chance of thunderstorms at 5pm local time (12am BST), and a 60% chance at 6pm (1am BST).

A Fifa statement said: “Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including risk caused by lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the kick-off of the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Mexico and England has been delayed to 1900 local time (2100 EDT).

“The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA’s priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation.”

At about 2.30pm (9.30pm BST), heavy rain and thunderstorms greeted England and Mexico fans outside the Estadio Azteca, with loud rumbles of thunder coming and going in the hours before kick-off.

The big screens inside the stadium displayed signs warning people that an electrical storm was approaching and to remain in their seats, though people ran for cover when the heavens opened.

Play cannot begin until 30 minutes has passed since lightning was detected within an eight-mile radius.

Mexico’s last-32 match with Ecuador on Wednesday was delayed by an hour after thunderstorms struck ahead of kick-off.

Lightning is not the only hazard which could strike the Three Lions’ World Cup hopes – co-hosts Mexico have lost only two of their 89 competitive games at the Estadio Azteca, which lies more than 2,200 metres above sea level.

An England win would set up a quarter-final tie with Norway following their 2-1 victory over Brazil on Sunday.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who earlier this week announced pubs would be able to stay open until 5am to show the match, predicted supporters would stay up through the night to watch the “big game”.

He said: “Mexico are a tough side to beat but we have a squad that knows what it takes to win.

“After the false hope of an earlier night, I know fans across the country will be staying up late to get behind the England team. And thanks to our change to pub licensing, they will be able to do that at their local, all through the early hours.

“Come on England!”

England fans outside the Estadio Azteca were quietly confident of the Three Lions’ chances in their round of 16 tie – with one saying the team can “win penalty shootouts now”.

Barnaby Shepherd, 58, originally from Cambridge but who now lives in Los Angeles, told the Press Association: “I think they’ll play slow for the first part because of the altitude and I think they’ll pass it a bit.

“If they can pass and conserve their energy and nick a goal… I told the Mexican waiter last night it’s going to be 1-1 and it will go to penalties and we’ll nick it on penalties.

“He said no chance, he thinks it will be 2-0 to Mexico.”

Asked if he was confident England can win on penalties, Mr Shepherd said: “I think so, I think we’ve got that, I think we can win penalty shootouts now – we’ve crossed a bridge there.”

Mr Shepherd said you can “put your watch by” thunderstorms in Mexico City.

He said: “My cousin, who lives in Mexico City – he’s from Somerset… he says the British media have it all wrong about the weather.

“It’s always mild, it never gets too hot, but you do have these thunderstorms and you can put your watch by it – you just know when they’re going to come.

“So I think they should have moved it up to 12pm personally, but we were at the airport and people were shaking their heads saying no because they’d made travel arrangements – so they didn’t like the idea of any disruption.

“People are going to be annoyed either way – we’ll see what happens today.

“Yesterday there was thunder and lightning – so that’s what they’re worried about.”

Meanwhile, Kyle Thomas, 35, from Bristol, predicted a tight game.

He said: “It’ll be a tight game – first 20 minutes, if we can keep it tight because they are going to come at us really quickly… but after 20 minutes I think we’ll be all right. 1-0 potentially – it’s going to be tight.”

His friend Jack Knight, 34, also from Bristol, said: “I think we’re at a disadvantage. They obviously played here last week, they haven’t conceded, they’ve won all their games.

“Hopefully we do well but we’ve just got to show up.

“There’s going to be, what, 5,000 English compared to 80,000 (from Mexico) – so we’re going to be outnumbered.”

Mr Thomas said the atmosphere inside the Estadio Azteca will be a “great experience”.

He said: “We’ll be loud behind the goal, the actual supporters, and there will be a few dotted around the stadium, but I’m excited just to see the atmosphere.

“The national anthem from Mexico is going to be amazing so it should be a great experience.

“We’re going to win, so hopefully onto Miami, and then Atlanta for the semis.”

The friends from Bristol said England manager Thomas Tuchel’s past achievements have given them hope for the Three Lions’ chances at the World Cup.

Mr Knight said: “I want to see a good game today – Panama wasn’t too exciting, nor Congo… I went to Dallas and watched that and that was the only time I was like ‘yeah, we can do this’.”

Mr Thomas added: “The only hope I have is that Tuchel won the Champions League playing badly with Chelsea, so I’m pinning my hopes on that.”

Asked what they had to do to afford their trip out to the US and Mexico, Mr Knight said: “Save up all our lives.”

Mr Thomas continued: “I’ve got a five-month-old and a 15-month-old, so I had to tell my missus I’m going away.

“I’ll break it to her later that I’m going to go to the semi-final – well, I’ll tell her now.”

Meanwhile, Steve Hartshorne, 70, from Walsall, said: “Let’s hope the players really come to the fore and are inspired by this atmosphere.

“We’ve been in the city and it’s manic. Green (shirts) everywhere, horns everywhere – it’s just so exciting.

“They’re a great footballing nation so let’s hope our players can respond.

“But the altitude could be a massive factor.”

Mr Hartshorne said he was confident England will have factored any delayed kick-off into their preparations.

Commenting on the potential storm disruptions, he said: “I’ve got my waterproof in here.

“I think they’ll have planned this into their thinking.

“They’ll be in the dressing room and they’ll get geared up.

“It’s the same for both sides isn’t it, really.”

Asked how England might cope with a potentially hostile atmosphere inside the Estadio Azteca, Mr Hartshorne said: “They’re experienced players, some of them, so let’s just hope they can do it.

“I’m quietly confident.”

- Melanie Disley

ENGLAND RECEIVE HOSTILE WELCOME AT MEXICO CITY HOTEL AHEAD OF WORLD CUP CLASH

England received a hostile welcome as they arrived at their Mexico City hotel ahead of Sunday night's World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico.

England had been hoping to keep their location undisclosed after Mexico supporters used loud speakers, horns and motorcycles to try to disturb the sleep of Ecuador's players before their last-32 tie, which the co-hosts won 2-0 on Wednesday night.

But when England's coach arrived at their hotel, hundreds of fans were already there, with many booing while others chanted "Mexico."

At least one supporter within the crowd could be seen holding up an England shirt.

England faced a hostile environment upon arrival to their team hotel. Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Security has been increased outside the hotel after events earlier in the week, which led to complaints from Ecuador's football federation.

There has also been an increase in security in the city after four people died during the celebrations that followed Mexico's win over Ecuador.

Thomas Tuchel's men take on the co-hosts in a mouth-watering clash at the Estadio Azteca, with kick-off scheduled for 6 p.m. local time (1 a.m. Monday in the United Kingdom).

FIFA had considered moving kick-off forward due to a forecast for storms in the region but, after five-and-a-half hours of uncertainty on Friday evening, the decision was made to stick with the original schedule, the Press Association understands.

Both England and Mexico had voiced opposition to rescheduling the game less than 48 hours before kick-off.

A hostile reception is far from the only challenge England will face in Mexico City, with the Azteca at an altitude of more than 2,000 metres above sea level, meaning players must adapt to lower levels of oxygen in the air.

Mexico have only been beaten twice in 89 matches at the Azteca, winning 70 and drawing 17. They are unbeaten in 10 World Cup matches at the stadium.

- PA

MEXICO END 40-YEAR WAIT FOR WORLD CUP KNOCKOUT MATCH VICTORY

For Ecuador, a first appearance beyond the group stage in 20 years comes to an immediate end

JUT DONE IT: Julian Quinones of Mexico celebrates scoring his team's first goal Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images

MEXICO ended a 40-year wait for a FIFA World Cup knockout victory with a composed 2- 0 win over Ecuador in front of a sold-out crowd at Mexico City Stadium, booking their place in the round of 16, reports Jeannique Kuhne.

Julián Quiñones starred with the opening goal and an all-action display to earn player of the match honours, while Raúl Jiménez added a second as El Tri maintained their remarkable defensive record.

Kick-off was delayed due to a severe thunderstorm but once play got underway Mexico quickly settled despite Ecuador enjoying more of the possession throughout the contest.

The first real opportunity fell to youngster Gilberto Mora in the 16th minute. At 17 years, eight months and 17 days, he became the youngest player at this World Cup and nearly marked the occasion with a memorable goal.

Mexico broke the deadlock six minutes later when Quiñones finished confidently to score his third goal of the tournament, sending the home supporters into celebration.

El Tri doubled their advantage in the 31st minute through Jiménez, whose strike was his 47th international goal. The veteran forward moved into second place on Mexico’s all- time scoring list, behind only Javier “Chicharito” Hernández’s tally of 51.

Ecuador continued to control possession, finishing with 57% of the ball, but struggled to break down Mexico’s disciplined defence. Their frustrations were compounded before half-time when goalkeeper Raúl Rangel produced a superb save in the 40th minute to preserve his side’s two-goal cushion.

The South Americans pushed after the break and came closest in the 74th minute when substitute Kevin Rodríguez forced another important intervention, but Mexico’s defence stood firm to record a fourth consecutive clean sheet of the tournament. They also threatened late on, going close again in stoppage time.

Ecuador’s evening ended on a sour note when Piero Hincapié was shown a red card in the fifth minute of added time for covering his mouth while addressing an opponent, becoming only the second player to be dismissed under the World Cup’s new communication rule after Paraguay’s Miguel Almirón earlier in the tournament.

The victory sends Mexico into the round of 16, where the co-hosts will face either England or Congo. They arrive in the knockout stage with four wins from four matches and without conceding a single goal. It also marks only Mexico’s second ever World Cup knockout victory, their first since defeating Bulgaria at the Azteca in 1986.

For Ecuador, a first appearance beyond the group stage in 20 years comes to an immediate end, while the result confirms the complete elimination of Groups E and F from the tournament.

- Staff Writer

FOOTBALL FAN FALLS TO THEIR DEATH FROM VIP BOX AT WORLD CUP 2026 STADIUM

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - MARCH 27: Construction workers give the final touches to Mexico City Stadium ahead of its reopening match on March 27, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. The Mexico City Stadium, officially named Estadio Banorte or better known by its former name, Estadio Azteca has undergone renovations to host its third World Cup. (Photo by Fernando de Dios/Getty Images)

A football fan has died at the Estadio Banorte after falling from a VIP box seat before a World Cup warm-up friendly between Mexico and Portugal on Saturday

A football supporter tragically died at the Estadio Banorte on Saturday, after plummeting from a box seat ahead of a World Cup warm-up friendly. Mexico will co-host this summer's tournament alongside the United States and Canada.

Following extensive refurbishments, the Estadio Banorte reopened this weekend to stage a match between Mexico and Portugal. Nevertheless, the grand comeback at the legendary ground was marred by tragedy.

According to Reuters, a man plunged from the second tier of VIP box seating while attempting to reach the first level by scaling the exterior of the structure. Authorities state that the individual was under the influence of alcohol, and tragically fell to the ground floor during his descent.

A statement issued on social media read: "Mexico City Public Prosecutor's Office (Fiscalía CDMX) deeply regrets the death of a person on Saturday, 28 March inside the Banorte Stadium, prior to the start of the Mexican national team's friendly match.

"From the outset, officials from the Attorney General's Office, forensic experts and officers from the Investigative Police attended the scene to commence the necessary investigations.

"The area was cordoned off, the scene was secured, and evidence was collected by experts specialising in criminalistics, photography and forensic medicine.

"Furthermore, analysis of CCTV footage from the stadium and its entrances is underway, as is the collection of statements from people who were at the scene, with the aim of accurately reconstructing the sequence of events and determining potential liability.

"Similarly, the statutory post-mortem procedure is currently underway to establish with certainty the cause of death, as well as the physical condition of the individual at the time of the fall.

"The Mexico City Public Prosecutor's Office will continue its investigations thoroughly and will keep the public informed as relevant developments arise, in strict accordance with the principles of due process."

It comes as the Estadio Banorte is poised to host a World Cup opening ceremony come June 11, when Mexico welcome South Africa in the tournament's curtain-raiser. It will also become the first venue to stage matches across three separate World Cups.

Beyond the fixture on June 11, the ground will also stage group phase encounters between Uzbekistan and Colombia, Mexico and the Czech Republic or Denmark, a round of 32 clash and another in the last 16.

Saturday's match between Mexico and Portugal proceeded as scheduled despite the incident, with both sides battling out a goalless stalemate.

- Aaron Morris

RANKING THE BEST KITS AT THE 2026 WORLD CUP INCLUDING SOUTH AFRICA'S GENERATIONAL AWAY SHIRT

Many teams have unveiled their new home and away kits for the 2026 World Cup, but a handful stand out amongst the rest.

Can you believe it? We are just 80 days away from witnessing the opening match at this summer's World Cup, an event that will be welcomed by kit-lovers all over the world.

The tournament will get underway on June 11 as co-hosts Mexico welcome South Africa to the famous Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

Mexico will wear a shirt that pays homage to one of their most iconic jerseys, the 1998 World Cup design worn in France, while South Africa are expected to don their viral green and gold striped kit.

Inspired by the kit they wore on home soil at the 2010 World Cup, the kit that features traditional patterns and stripes could be a fan favourite at the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Someone on social media described the design as a masterpiece, while another commented: "The best national jersey I've seen".

Adidas home kits for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas

Adidas away kits for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Getty

Most of those taking part in the 48-team tournament have been introduced to their new-look kit, with the likes of Adidas and Nike launching their designs to the wider public in recent months.

So, which kits stand out amongst the rest?

SPORTbible have decided to pick out some of our favourites ahead of this summer's showpiece event, and before you mention it, yes, we enjoy the classic Adidas trefoil logo, but who doesn't?

Scotland – Away

Blending heritage with a contemporary aesthetic, Scotland have returned to scarlet red – last used in the 1980s – for this summer's World Cup.

The design draws on some of Scotland’s most iconic away kits, with its vertical purple pinstripes "adding depth and detail to create a dynamic look that stands out on the international stage."

Sometimes, simple is best. SPORTbible rating: 9/10

Scotland's away kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas

South Africa – Away

Inspired by the kit they wore on home soil at the 2010 World Cup, South Africa might just scrape the award for best kit at this year's World Cup.

The updated design pays tribute to South Africa's 12 official languages, which is described by Adidas as "a powerful reflection of the nation's diversity, unity, and shared love for football."

Moreover, the subtle graphic elements woven into the fabric symbolise "the many voices that rise together in stadiums across the country and around the world."

Everything about this kit is sublime. From the dark green and gold colour combination to its stripes and traditional patterns, it really is a thing of beauty. SPORTbible rating: 10/10.

South Africa's away kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas

Chile – Away

Chile's vibrant away kit for this summer's World Cup pays homage to the Desierto Florido, a rare natural phenomenon that occasionally transforms the Atacama Desert into a colourful bloom.

A recurring theme in this list is Adidas and its wonderful retro trefoil logo. For the first time in 36 years, the classic logo has returned to the international football stage, and we couldn't be happier about it.

The classic Originals look injects a 90's vibe to proceedings and this kit, with its striking floral graphic and earthy crackle design, is a joy to behold. SPORTbible rating: 9/10

South Africa's away kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas

Costa Rica – Away

Inspired by the colourful toucan, a bird that symbolises social connection, this all-over blue and fuchsia design embodies the spirit of Costa Rica's friendly and joyful culture. One thing is for sure, it will stand out on match day.

The pastel pinks and blues are wonderful. Not everyone's cup of tea but we're a big fan. SPORTbible rating: 8.5/10

Costa Rica's away kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas

Germany – Home

Like so many of the other shirts at this summer's tournament, Germany has paid homage to some of the nation’s most iconic jerseys in years gone by, with its diamond shape and chevron detailing.

For us, long-sleeved shirts are a winner. A timeless classic which will be the last Adidas release before Nike take over. SPORTbible rating: 8.5/10

Germany's home kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas

Curacao – Away

Another contender for the best kit at this summer's World Cup. The Curacao away kit celebrates the capital city, Willemstad, and the colourful buildings that reside in its Punda and Otrobanda districts.

A colourful tribute to Curacao's distinctive architecture, the shirt is predominantly pastel yellow, with bold pink, turquoise, and orange stripes, as well as blue details on its sleeves and cuffs.

A stunning jersey for the country’s first-ever World Cup. SPORTbible rating: 9.5/10

Curacao's away kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas

Germany – Away

For the second time in this list, Germany has been given a mention. And can you blame us? This shirt is a nod to the blue quarter zips worn in 1954, as well as the classic training tops of the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Adding to the retro aesthetic, a continuous zigzag pattern of diagonal jagged stripes runs across the fabric, drawing inspiration from classic Adidas shoebox designs.

"I find a Germany jersey in this color unusual – but really good,” said Germany's Florian Wirtz. We agree. SPORTbible rating: 9/10

Germany's away kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas

Japan – Away

The shirt features 12 vertical stripes over an off-white base, with eleven of those lines representing the players on the field. The red one in the middle? Well, that embodies the red sun of the national flag.

This design is reminiscent of baseball shirts, with the sport being one of the most popular in Japan. Simple, but effective. SPORTbible rating: 8/10

Japan's away kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Adidas. Image credit: Adidas

France – Away

The only Nike representative on this list. (Sorry, we just love the trefoil logo).

France’s glacier green away kit for the World Cup pays homage to the Statue of Liberty, with its colours mimicking those of the statue, a gift to the US from France in 1886. In fact, this jersey is called "Liberté".

Meanwhile, the copper-colored rooster is another homage to the colour of the Statue of Liberty before its oxidation. SPORTbible rating: 8.5/10

France's away kit for the 2026 World Cup. Image credit: Nike

Thoughts on our list? Which one is your favourite? Let us know in the comments.

Featured Image Credit: Adidas

- Jack Kenmare

2026 WORLD CUP: IRAN ASKS FIFA TO MOVE GAMES FROM US TO MEXICO

Iran are scheduled to play their 2026 World Cup group games in LA and Seattle

Iran has asked Fifa to move its 2026 World Cup games from the US to Mexico as the wrangling over the war-torn country’s participation continues.

The Iranian embassy in Mexico posted a statement on social media saying that talks were ongoing over the possible solution after President Trump suggested that it may not be safe for Iran to travel to the US for this summer’s tournament.

Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj was quoted as saying: “When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America. 

“We are currently negotiating with Fifa to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico.”

Iran are currently scheduled to play their first two group games against New Zealand and Belgium in LA, with their third against Egypt in Seattle.

Three Mexican cities – Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey – are set to stage fixtures at the World Cup, which is also being co-hosted

But matches have already been allocated to those cities and the teams involved, who include Japan, South Korea, Tunisia and Japan, have already made their tournament plans accordingly.

Iran put World Cup ball back in Fifa’s court

Moving games would therefore represent a major logistical headache for Fifa and could anger local authorities in LA and Seattle who have already budgeted for their schedule.

On top of that, the bulk of knockout stage games will be in the US, meaning it would be impossible to avoid Iran playing in the States if they progressed.

The suggestion does, however, put the ball back in Fifa’s court with less than 100 days to go until the biggest ever World Cup kicks off on 11 June. 

Iran has refused to formally withdraw despite officials saying they would be unable to travel to the US amid the ongoing military operations led by the Trump administration and Israel.

After Fifa chief Gianni Infantino relayed apparent assurances from Trump that Iran would be welcome at the World Cup, the US President undid that work by saying: “The Iranian national team is welcome at the World Cup, but I really don’t think their presence is appropriate, for their own lives and safety.”

The Iranian men’s national team hit back in a post on social media, saying: “No one can exclude the Iranian national team from the World Cup; the only country that could be excluded is the one that merely holds the title of ‘host country’ without being able to ensure the safety of the teams participating in this global event.”

- Frank Dalleres

MEXICAN PRESIDENT SHEINBAUM SAYS 'THERE'S NO RISK FOR FIFA WORLD CUP VENUES DESPITE FALLOUT FROM KILLING OF EL MENCHO

 Mexico will host 13 games across Jalisco, Monterrey and Mexico City

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum HECTOR VIVAS/GETTY IMAGES

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum claimed there is no risk for the security of the FIFA World Cup matches that the country will host later this year despite the fallout from the killing of Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the longtime leader of the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG).

Asked about the issue during her daily press conference on Tuesday, Sheinbaum said that "all guarantees are given" for the 13 matches that will be played in Mexico City, Jalisco and Monterrey.

Sheinbaum has also said that the country is already "calm and peaceful," adding that federal and state forces are working in coordination following backlash from cartel operatives, which included road blocks and different violent acts across the country.

Sheinbaum went on to say that all major roads in the country are clear and authorities will swiftly respond to any incident.

According to official figures presented by Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch and Defense Secretary Gen. Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, about 70 people were killed and about 20 injured in multiple Mexican states following the military operation that resulted in the death of El Mencho.

Trevilla detailed casualties from the operation itself, saying three soldiers were killed in direct clashes in a wooded area of Jalisco and three more died from injuries while being airlifted to a hospital. He said troops also killed eight suspected gunmen, detained two people and seized weapons including seven long guns and two rocket launchers of Russian origin.

Elsewhere in the conference, the general said that forces managed to find El Mencho after tracking down a lover of his. Once the person left the premise, officers confirmed that El Mencho stayed there. Forces then moved on to detain him, engaging in a shootout with cartel operatives there.

Trevilla Trejo noted that that El Mencho tried to escape while leaving a group of operatives behind to slow down government forces. He made it to a nearby wood, but forces pinned him down and wounded him. El Mencho was taken to a helicopter heading to Mexico City, but he died on the way.

Another report detailed that the CIA provided 'instrumental' information to locate "El Mencho." Citing a U.S. official briefed on the operation, The New York Times detailed that the agency has several ways of collecting information in the country, including human informants, overhead imagery and intercepted communications.

The outlet went on to say that the U.S. has stepped up intelligence-sharing with the country and pressuring it to act on it. Mexican authorities confirmed there was cooperation with the U.S. in the operation.

MCLAREN'S LANDO NORRIS WINS IN MEXICO TO TAKE F1 LEAD FROM OSCAR PIASTRI

McLaren's Lando Norris celebrates after winning the Mexico City Grand Prix.

PHOTO: REUTERS

MEXICO CITY - McLaren's Lando Norris avoided early mayhem to cruise to a dominant Mexico City Grand Prix win and retake the Formula One championship lead by a single point from teammate Oscar Piastri on Oct 26.

Australian Piastri, who started the race seventh and 14 points clear of the Briton, finished fifth after a virtual safety car in the last two laps denied him a shot at fourth after a thrilling chase.

Charles Leclerc was runner-up for Ferrari, a hefty 30.3 seconds adrift of Norris, while Red Bull's reigning champion Max Verstappen took third – just 0.7 behind the Monegasque.

Norris, who started from pole position and led every lap, now has 357 points to Piastri's 356 with Verstappen on 321 and four rounds remaining.

"What a race. I could just keep my eyes focused and forward and focus on what I was doing," said Norris, who was booed by the home crowd for reasons that remained unclear.

"A pretty straightforward race for me which is just what I was after. A good start, a good launch, a good first lap and I could go from there."

Norris last led the standings in April, a gap of 189 days, and had not won a race since Hungary in early August. Oct 26 was his sixth victory of the season, one less than Piastri, and career 10th.

"I felt like the whole race I was right behind someone and struggling with the dirty air. That was pretty difficult," said Piastri.

"Today was about trying to limit the damage, but also trying to learn some things about that. If I've made some progress with that I'll be happy."

Oliver Bearman was fourth for Haas, a best result for the Briton and also the United States-owned team, and was 1.1 seconds clear of Piastri at a chequered flag waved by former heavyweight boxing champion Evander Holyfield.

"I held off Max in the first stint, I held off the Mercs in the second, and I held off the McLaren in the third one," the rookie said.

"I spent more time looking in my rear view mirrors than in front. But that's sometimes how it has to be."

Kimi Antonelli was sixth for Mercedes, with teammate George Russell seventh and Lewis Hamilton eighth for Ferrari after a 10-second penalty dropped him from third and dashed his hopes of a first podium for the team he joined in January.

Esteban Ocon was ninth, making a double points finish for Haas, and Sauber's Gabriel Bortoleto took the final point.

The top three all completed the race on a one-stop strategy, while Bearman, Piastri and the Mercedes drivers all pitted twice.

Ferrari moved back into second place, a point ahead of Mercedes, in a constructors' championship already won by McLaren but with a tight scrap for the runner-up slot.

Norris made a clean start from pole when the lights went out but was caught in a four-way tussle down the long run to turn one, with Verstappen cutting the corner and bumping over the grass.

Leclerc then cut turn two, giving the place back to Norris who emerged from the chaos ahead while Verstappen gained a place in fourth to the intense irritation of Russell.

"I got squeezed like crazy," said Verstappen over the team radio as Russell, who started fourth, called in vain for the four-time world champion to hand the place back.

A scary incident saw Racing Bulls' Liam Lawson, who came in for a new front wing on lap three, accelerate out of the pits as two marshals ran across the track in front of him.

Verstappen and third-placed Hamilton made contact on lap six as they went side by side with the Red Bull driver trying to go past at turn one but ending up cutting the next corner.

Hamilton went off at turn four, cutting back across the grass, and was handed a penalty for leaving the track and gaining an advantage.

Bearman meanwhile climbed to fourth, from ninth at the start, and looked on for a podium once Hamilton took his penalty on lap 24 only to be reeled in by Verstappen.

While Norris enjoyed a calm afternoon in the sunshine, Piastri had to fight back from a low of 11th after his first stop, passing Antonelli in the pits and Russell on track.

The virtual safety car was deployed after Williams' Carlos Sainz, the 2024 winner for Ferrari, spun and stopped on track on the penultimate lap with smoke coming from it. 

- REUTERS

FORMULA 1 DRIVER STANDINGS | POINTS AFTER MEXICO GRAND PRIX 2025

 

MEXICO GRAND PRIX 2025 | STARTING GRID

 

MEXICO GP FACING UNCERTAIN FUTURE FOLLOWING PEREZ F1 EXIT

The Mexican Grand Prix is facing an uphill battle to secure its place on the Formula 1 calendar beyond 2025, with promoters expressing serious concern following the departure of homegrown star Sergio Perez.

With the former Red Bull driver no longer on the grid, the event’s long-term viability is in question, casting doubt over the future of one of F1’s most vibrant and passionate races.

The Mexican Grand Prix has enjoyed a resurgence since its return to the F1 calendar in 2015, drawing record-breaking crowds year after year.

But at the heart of its success has been the country’s unwavering support for Sergio Perez, whose presence has galvanized a fervent home crowd.

Last year, a staggering 404,958 fans poured into the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City over the race weekend, many coming specifically to cheer on their national hero.

However, with Red Bull opting to part ways with Perez at the end of 2024 following a difficult season, the event’s organisers fear a significant drop in interest.

Alejandro Soberon, CEO of CIE, the company behind the race’s promotion, has admitted that Perez’s absence from the grid is a cause for major concern.

“As organisers, we are very concerned about Sergio Perez's absence from the Formula 1 grid,” Soberon stated, quoted by FormulaPassion.it.

“However, we are trying to find a way to extend our contract with the championship.”

Searching for a Future Without Perez

Soberon remains hopeful that the spectacle of the event itself can sustain fan enthusiasm, emphasizing improvements made in recent years.

“We are now able to provide the public with a much better show than we did five years ago, and we believe that the competition between the drivers and the bright colours of our show are sufficient aspects to keep spectators interested,” he said last October, when doubts regarding Perez F1 future emerged.

Yet, he acknowledged that losing a local hero presents a formidable challenge. While having a homegrown star undeniably boosts attendance and engagement, Soberon remains optimistic that the Mexican crowd will continue to find new drivers to rally behind.

“Everything depends on marketing and, although it is always better to have an idol of the local public, in the event that there is not one we are convinced that the fans will still find a hero to support,” he explained.

Fighting for a Spot on the Calendar

The timing of Mexico’s contract expiration complicates matters further. Two other major venues –Imola and Las Vegas – also have contracts expiring in 2025.

However, Las Vegas is widely expected to secure a long-term extension, as Formula 1 itself acts as the event’s promoter, and local authorities have already paved the way for a decade-long commitment to racing in the entertainment capital.

Meanwhile, several other nations, including South Africa and Rwanda, are eager to claim a spot on the F1 calendar. With the increasing globalization of the sport, competition for hosting rights is fiercer than ever.

The Mexican Grand Prix has been a cornerstone of F1’s Latin American presence, but its survival now depends on proving it can thrive without Perez.

If the event fails to maintain its immense draw, Formula 1 may be tempted to move the slot elsewhere.

Soberon’s comments underscore the anxiety surrounding the race’s future, but they also reflect a belief that the passionate Mexican fanbase can keep the event alive.

Whether that optimism translates into a contract extension remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: 2025 could be the most crucial year in the history of the Mexico City Grand Prix.

- Phillip van Osten

FERNANDO ALONSO TO ARRIVE LATE IN BRAZIL AFTER TREATMENT FOR INFECTION

Fernando Alonso will arrive late to this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix following treatment for an intestinal infection.

Alonso’s Aston Martin team revealed the 43-year-old suffered the illness prior to the previous round in Mexico.

The Spaniard headed to Europe to see a specialist following the race in Mexico City and he will be absent from Thursday’s media activities to preview Sunday’s Grand Prix in Interlagos.

He is expected to be in his cockpit for practice on Friday.

A statement from the British team read: “Aston Martin confirms that Fernando Alonso will miss his media day activities in Brazil.

“Fernando had suffered with an intestinal infection in the lead up to the Mexico City Grand Prix. He returned to Europe to receive further treatment from a specialist.

“The extra day of treatment has delayed his travel plans to Brazil but ensures he will be ready for this weekend’s racing.”

Alonso became the first driver to reach 400 Grands Prix last Sunday but, after he qualified 13th, the two-time world champion was forced to retire following just 15 laps with a brake failure.

- Philip Duncan, Pa F1 Correspondent

FORMULA 1 GRAN PREMIO DE LA CIUDADDE MÉXICO 2024 | MEXICO 🇲🇽 CITY | FIRST PRACTICE SESSION CLASSIFICATION

 

GOALKEEPER NAHUEL GUZMÁN SUSPENDED FOEN11 GAMES, FINED FOR POINTING LASER AT RIVAL IN LIGA MX MATCH

 MEXICO CITY (AP) — Nahuel Guzmán, a goalkeeper for the Mexican club Tigres of Nuevo Leon, was suspended 11 games and fined for pointing a laser at fellow goalie Esteban Andrada during a tournament match last weekend, Liga MX announced Thursday.

The 38-year-old Guzmán is recovering from right knee surgery and was in the visiting team’s box at the BBVA stadium in Monterrey last Saturday during the first half when he pointed the laser in the direction of Andrada, a fellow Argentine and the starting goalkeeper for Rayados.

Monterrey's sports president, Jose Antonio Noriega, went to the box and took away the laser in the first half of the match, which ended in a 3-3 draw.

In addition to the suspension and fine, Guzmán must do unspecified community work.

This is the first time in the history of Mexican soccer that a player has been sanctioned for pointing a laser at a rival. The 2014 Apertura final between América and Tigres was stopped momentarily because a fan was aiming a laser at players.

Guzmán, who was on Argentina's roster for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, will miss the rest of the Clausura tournament because of the suspension. It's not clear when he will be healthy enough to play.

The fine of Guzmán was one of several stemming from the match.

Tigres was fined an unspecified amount for the behavior of its fans. A Tigres fan could be seen urinating in a glass and throwing it on Rayados fans in video posted on social media.

Andrada received a fine for a post on his Instagram account in which he made homophobic comments about Guzmán.

And Monterrey was also fined over fan behavior. A video posted on social media showed a Rayados fan throwing liquid at forward André-Pierre Gignac and making an obscene gesture.

Without revealing names or the teams they supported, the Disciplinary Commission of Liga MX said two fans would be banned from attending league matches, although it did not say for how long.

NEW JERSEY AWARDED 2026 WORLD CUP FINAL, MEXICO GETS OPENER

MetLife Stadium. Reuters 

 The 2026 World Cup final will be held in New Jersey at the home of the National Football League's New York Giants and New York Jets, world soccer's governing body FIFA announced on Sunday, along with the entire schedule for the global soccer showcase.

The 48-team World Cup, which will conclude on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Canada will host 13 games in total, including 10 in the group stage split evenly between Toronto and Vancouver. Mexico will also get 13 games, including 10 during the group stage in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. The rest of tournament will be held in 11 cities across the United States.

Toronto, Mexico City, and Los Angeles will host the opening matches of their respective national teams.

The open-air stadium for the final, which opened in 2010 and has a capacity of 82,500, hosted the Copa America Centenario final in 2016 when Chile denied Lionel Messi's Argentina for a second time in a penalty shootout.

FIFA did not announce kickoff times for the games.

ATLANTA HAWKS MEXICO 🇲🇽 CITY GAME | CINEMATIC HIGHER

 

MEXICO 🇲🇽 CITY RACE SETS

F1 QUALIFYING CLASSIFICATION | MEXICO CITY |#MEXICOGP

 

F1 FIRST PRACTICE CLASSIFICATION | MEXICO CITY | #MEXICOGP

 

F1: MEXICAN GRAND PRIX TO PROCEED DESPITE THE MASSIVE 7.1 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE

Mexico Formula One organisers said the Grand Prix will go ahead despite the huge earthquake that killed 237 people and destroyed many buildings...