Strong Storm Disrupts Portugal's Training Before Facing Democratic Republic of Congo

Portugal's preparations for the 2026 World Cup faced a temporary setback after a training session was canceled due to a strong storm that hit Palm Beach, Florida, where the team is holding its preparatory camp.

The Spanish news agency reported that a severe thunderstorm, followed by heavy rain, prevented the start of the training, prompting players to seek a safe place to continue some physical exercises before the training session began.

The weather conditions did not only affect the Portuguese team, as several journalists present in the media center adjacent to the training field had to leave the place due to the harsh weather conditions.

Given the impossibility of holding the training session, it was decided to postpone the session, and the players' appearance before the media was also postponed to the new date, on Monday morning.

The Portuguese team arrived in the United States last Friday and has only held one training session so far before the storm disrupted their preparation program.

The Portuguese team is preparing to kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign next Wednesday when they face the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The same source indicated that the weather conditions in Palm Beach prevented the players from leaving their residence throughout Sunday, in a scene completely different from the previous day when the delegation members enjoyed a walk on the beach under sunny skies.

Thunderstorms are common phenomena during this time of the year in Florida and often affect major sporting events. These conditions caused the postponement of several Club World Cup matches last year, as U.S. authorities prohibit holding or continuing sports competitions if lightning strikes within 13 kilometers of the stadium.

The protocol adopted in the United States stipulates that no sports activity can resume until 30 full minutes have passed since the last lightning flash is observed in the event's vicinity.