France vs. Iraq becomes first 2026 World Cup game delayed due to weather with heavy rain, lightning in area

The friendly match between France and Iraq became the first game of the 2026 World Cup cycle to be delayed due to weather conditions. The match, played in Philadelphia, saw heavy rain fall throughout the first half, and a delay was announced at halftime after lightning was reported in the area. It marks a notable weather-related disruption in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.