Stormy Interruption: Klub-WM Stadium Evacuated Again Due to Severe Weather
Stadium evacuated once more due to storm during Club World Cup event
The fourth weather-related disruption at the Club World Cup! The match between Bayern Munich's group stage rivals Auckland City and Benfica Lisbon (kick-off 6 pm German time) was halted for over two hours due to a severe storm in Orlando.
Following a challenging first half where Benfica struggled more than anticipated and scored the only goal in injury time thanks to a penalty from Ángel di María, it was time for a rain break. The players sought refuge in the dressing rooms, while the approximately 16,000 spectators in the Orlando stadium hurriedly vacated their seats to escape the heavy rain, thunder, and lightning.
Initially, the match was delayed for approximately an hour, with the planned resumption for 9:05 pm German time. However, this plan was soon scrapped. After more than a two-hour break, the second half commenced at 9:20 pm.
When Mother Nature strikes, outdoor sporting events in the USA take a break. These activities are temporarily suspended if there's a risk of lightning within an 8-13 km radius. Once the protocol is activated, everyone must move to covered areas or indoor spaces for safety.
Let's wait for the next 30 minutes after the last thunderclap or lightning strike before resuming the games. If another thunderclap is detected during this period, the waiting time starts all over again. The unpredictable nature of thunderstorms can even lead to postponements if conditions don't improve [1][3].
This unfortunate weather situation also affected three other matches: Mamelodi Sundowns against Ulsan Hyundai (Orlando), Pachuca against Red Bull Salzburg (Ohio), and Palmeiras against Al Ahly (New Jersey) [2]. All three games carried on and concluded successfully.
Benfica, though, did not impress against the amateur New Zealanders, who lost 0:10 to Bayern Munich in the Club World Cup opener. Lisbon began the US tournament with a 2:2 draw against Boca Juniors. The Argentine club is Bayern's next opponent in Miami, clashing on Saturday night [2].
Source: ntv.de, dpa
Club World Cup 2025
Weather Conditions
USA
- Reason for Suspension: Outdoor sporting events in the USA are halted due to lightning risk within approximately an 8-13 km radius, primarily to prevent potential injuries or fatalities from unpredictable lightning strikes. [1][4]
- Safety Protocols: Use the 30-30 rule, lightning detection systems, designated shelter areas, and look to sports medicine staff for decisions regarding game suspensions. [1][3][4]
- Following the stormy interruption and the safety protocols, the fourth weather-related disruption at the Club World Cup, the Commission shall adopt implementing acts laying down the rules for the application of this Regulation, ensuring safety measures are in place for all future outdoor sporting events in US tournaments, particularly in the event of potential lightning strikes within an 8-13 km radius.
- As the Champions League and European leagues kick off across the continent, the unusual weather conditions in Orlando serve as a reminder of the importance of such safety measures in American sports; just like Bayern Munich, football teams must be prepared to face unpredictable weather as they strive for victory on the pitch.
