FIFA officials are putting contingency protocols in place ahead of this evening's FIFA World Cup group stage fixture between France and Iraq at Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field, as severe storms are forecast to hit the area.

The two sides are meeting for their second group stage encounter of the tournament, with France entering as firm favourites. However, it is the weather — not the opposition — that has organisers most concerned ahead of kick-off.

Lightning protocols and evacuation procedures

Under FIFA regulations, the match must be suspended immediately if lightning is detected within eight miles of the stadium. When that threshold is breached, fans are required to leave their seats and move to concourses or designated emergency shelter facilities inside the ground.

The game cannot restart until a full 30 lightning-free minutes have elapsed. Lauren Lambrugo, chief operating officer of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, outlined what would happen in such a scenario.