Chelsea’s Enzo Maresca Critical of Club World Cup Hosting Amid Weather Delays
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed his frustrations regarding the recent delays in the Club World Cup, specifically highlighting the two-hour suspension of the match against Benfica due to adverse weather conditions. The Italian tactician labeled the situation as “a joke,” emphasizing that hosting such a tournament in the United States during the summer might not be suitable.
After a grueling match that concluded with Chelsea winning 4-1 in extra time, Maresca stated, “This is not football,” as he reflected on the extended delay which saw the game last four hours and 39 minutes. The stoppage occurred when dangerous thunderstorms emerged in the vicinity of the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, prompting safety protocols to be enacted.
Understanding the Impact of Weather
The stoppages caused by seasonal thunderstorms have become a troubling theme for the tournament, with this being the sixth game affected. As per regulations in the U.S., any detected thunderstorms within an eight-mile radius necessitate immediate relocations for players, staff, and fans to indoor areas for safety reasons. This unease surrounding weather conditions poses questions, particularly with the U.S. set to co-host the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Maresca didn’t hold back on his criticism: “It’s not normal to suspend the game. In a World Cup, how many games are suspended? Zero probably.” He lamented the fact that since arriving, six or seven games have been halted, questioning the overall appropriateness of the competition being held in such conditions.
Match Overview and Delays
The match against Benfica encapsulated the struggle, showcasing how unpredictable weather can shift the dynamics of play:
| Time (BST) | Event |
|---|---|
| 21:00 | Kick-off |
| 22:53 | Match suspended (Chelsea leading 1-0) |
| 00:47 | Match resumes |
| 00:54 | VAR check for Benfica penalty |
| 00:57 | Penalty scored by Angel di Maria |
| 01:01 | Full-time |
| 01:39 | End of extra time (Chelsea wins 4-1) |
Addressing Concerns About Summer Hosting
The recurring weather disruptions have sparked debates about the viability of organizing such events in the U.S. during the summer months. Maresca noted the challenges of training and competing under extreme weather conditions, stating it was “impossible” to maintain regular training sessions.
As discussions regarding potential solutions arise, altering the tournament schedule to winter months has been suggested. However, cold weather can also pose challenges in various U.S. regions.
The head of FIFA’s technical study group, Arsene Wenger, acknowledged the issue, insisting that safety comes first, even when it disrupts the flow of the game. FIFA released a statement supporting the delay decision due to the potential danger posed by lightning.
With further matches on the horizon, the remarks from Maresca prompt a wider examination of how international football can navigate the challenges posed by climate and ensure seamless competition.
