Concerns have been dispelled that England’s pivotal World Cup quarter-final clash with Norway in Miami might face delays or cancellations due to extreme heat in South Florida.
South Florida has been placed under a significant heat advisory as temperatures are expected to reach between 29-32°C, with a perceived heat index climbing as high as 44°C by the time the match begins at 5 p.m. local time (10 p.m. UK time).
Miami’s official X account has issued a warning to residents in the area, advising them to ‘stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and reduce outdoor activities as needed’.
The statement on their channel highlighted: ‘A Major Heat Risk is currently affecting much of South Florida today.
‘High temperatures combined with humidity could increase the chances of heat-related health issues. Staying hydrated, wearing light clothing, minimizing time outside during peak heat, and spending time in air-conditioned environments are recommended. Keep updated and informed.’
FIFPRO, the global representative of professional footballers across the world, advise games should be delayed or postponed until conditions are safe if the local temperature exceeds 28°C.
England’s crucial World Cup quarter-final showdown against Norway in Miami was at risk of being delayed due to dangerously high temperatures
Temperatures are soaring across South Florida ahead of kick-off at 5pm local time
A major heat risk has been declared in South Florida with temperatures said to be rising to 29-32°C
Daily Mail Sport understands, however, that there are currently no plans to change the kick-off time for tonight’s game.
Both teams will still have to contend with sweltering temperatures in a stadium that, unlike some of its competitors at this tournament, is not air-conditioned and will not provide the respite players had in Dallas or Atlanta.
It will be the latest challenge for England’s players after they battled inclement weather and altitude sickness in Mexico City.
England’s last-16 match against Mexico was delayed by an hour during the early hours of Monday morning with the game kicking off at 2am (UK time) rather than 1am due to severe thunderstorms.
Supporters already at the stadium sought shelter, while media members were told they must not leave the media centre amid the yellow severe weather warning.
England’s players arrived on schedule, raising hope that it would go ahead as planned at its original time, but that was quickly shelved just under an hour before it was due to kick-off.
Thomas Tuchel’s side managed to overcome the elements and humidity to defeat the tournament co-hosts 3-2 and set up an encounter with Norway.
England fans have been given some good news today at least as supporters won’t be kicked out of the pub if today’s game is delayed.
The Government has now confirmed pubs can stay open in England and Wales until 30 minutes after the final whistle is blown, even if the start of the game is delayed.
Pictures show England supporters revelling at pool parties – with police needed to escort some out
England fans partying ahead of today’s crunch quarter-final with Norway were left dripping wet after a tropical storm swept in bringing an end to outdoor parties
Ministers had already pushed opening hours for the game until 2am, but have made the extra extension with flexible licensing laws.
Policing minister Sarah Jones said: ‘England fans deserve the chance to watch every minute of the quarter-final together, and that is exactly what our extension guarantees.
‘After the weather delay we saw before the Mexico game, we want to give fans and venues complete certainty that no-one will miss a moment of the action.
‘I hope pubs and bars across England and Wales are packed on Saturday night, as we hopefully move one step closer to bringing football home.’
The change has been made through new legislation temporarily extending licensing hours for eligible venues.
The same flexibility will apply to England’s remaining matches, including the final, ensuring venues can stay open until 30 minutes after the final whistle if delays occur.
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