Maresca Critiques U.S. Weather Delays at Club World Cup Match

Charlotte, NC – Enzo Maresca, the manager of Chelsea Football Club, expressed his frustration following a significant weather delay that affected the team's performance during their recent Club World Cup match against Benfica. The game, held at Bank of America Stadium on June 29, 2025, saw Chelsea leading 1-0 when play was suspended in the 85th minute due to a severe lightning storm in the area. After a delay of nearly two hours, the match resumed, ultimately concluding with Chelsea defeating Benfica 4-1 after extra time.

Maresca's comments highlighted his concerns over the suitability of the United States as a host for such a prestigious tournament. "For 85 minutes we were in control of the game. After the break, the game changed completely. For me it’s not football," Maresca stated post-match. "You cannot be inside. I struggle to understand. I can understand that for security reasons, you suspend the game, but if you suspend seven, eight games, that means that probably this is not the right place to do this competition."

This incident is not isolated; it reflects a broader pattern of weather-related interruptions that have plagued the tournament. According to FIFA regulations, matches can be suspended for severe weather conditions to ensure player safety. However, this tournament has already seen six games suspended across multiple cities due to similar conditions, raising questions about the preparedness of the host country for such events.

Chelsea's victory, aided by goals from Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in extra time, allowed them to advance to the quarter-finals where they will face Palmeiras. Despite the win, Maresca's criticism casts a shadow on the logistical aspects of the tournament, especially as the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws closer, which will also be hosted in the United States.

The implications of such weather delays extend beyond the immediate inconvenience to teams and players. According to Dr. John Harrison, a climatologist at the University of North Carolina, the frequency of severe weather events in the U.S. has been increasing in recent years due to climate change. "As we see more erratic weather patterns, sporting events need to adapt to these realities, especially at the international level," he noted in a 2024 report published in the Journal of Climate Studies.

Maresca's concerns also echo the sentiments of other coaches in the tournament. Several have voiced similar frustrations regarding the management of weather delays, which they believe disrupt the flow and integrity of the game. "It’s not just about Chelsea; it’s about the entire competition and how we ensure it maintains its prestige," said Julian Nagelsmann, head coach of Bayern Munich, who faced similar issues in his team's match.

As the tournament progresses, the focus will be on how organizers address these challenges. The potential for further weather disruptions looms large, prompting discussions about the viability of outdoor venues in regions susceptible to extreme weather. With the stakes high, ensuring the smooth conduct of matches will be critical for the reputation of the Club World Cup and future international tournaments in the U.S.

In conclusion, while Chelsea's progress in the tournament is commendable, the questions raised by Maresca regarding the impact of weather on game play and the overall experience for teams and fans must be taken seriously. The future of international football in the U.S. may depend on how effectively these logistical issues are addressed in the coming years.