A 2026 World Cup qualifying match between France and Iraq has been temporarily suspended due to a severe electrical storm. The Group I match was halted as weather conditions deteriorated, prompting officials to prioritize player and spectator safety. No immediate resumption time has been announced, and the decision to postpone was made to avoid risks associated with lightning and heavy rainfall. This marks the first weather-related suspension of a match in the qualifying campaign for the expanded 48-team tournament. Organizers are monitoring the situation and will assess conditions before determining when play can safely resume. The suspension impacts the progress of both teams in their pursuit of qualification for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.