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Spain have called off their final training session ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated FIFA World Cup final against Argentina, after severe weather disrupted their plans in New Jersey. Luis de la Fuente’s squad, along with Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina side, were both affected by the heavy thunderstorms that swept across the area, making any outdoor activity unsafe.

Thunderstorms bring training to a standstill

Preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final descended into confusion on Saturday as storms rolled through northern New Jersey. Spain’s team arrived as planned at the Melanie Lane Training Ground, only to be informed by tournament organisers that safety protocols prohibited play until at least 30 minutes had passed without a lightning strike. After observing no signs of improvement, de la Fuente and his staff decided to cancel the session rather than keep the players waiting in the changing rooms indefinitely.

In remarks shared by USA Today, a FIFA representative explained that the regulations were non-negotiable, citing player safety as the top priority. The delay left Spain’s coaching team with little choice but to abandon their final opportunity to rehearse tactical adjustments before the final.

De la Fuente faces injury concerns

The timing of the cancellation could not have been worse for de la Fuente, who had emphasised the importance of this particular training session. Several key players, including Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro, were still recovering from knocks they picked up during Spain’s hard-fought semi-final victory over France.

During his pre-match press conference on Friday, de la Fuente had underlined how crucial the final 24 hours of preparation were. He said, “Tomorrow we have the last training session. It’s one of the most critical moments, thinking that there can’t be any delays because you won’t make the game if there were some sort of adverse circumstance – hopefully not. But they’re all good.”

Argentina also hit by delays

On the other side, Argentina encountered similar issues. Lionel Scaloni’s team had been scheduled to train at the home ground of the New York Red Bulls, just five miles from Spain’s base. The Albiceleste were also forced to delay their plans due to the same storm system, though they hoped to resume once the conditions improved.

Led by the ever-reliable Lionel Messi, Argentina are aiming to become only the third team in history to retain the World Cup. Scaloni, however, will be wary of any disruption that could affect his side’s rhythm, especially as they prepare to counter the high-tempo pressing approach expected from Spain’s midfield.

Historic moment ahead

Beyond the weather challenges, Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium marks a historic occasion for both nations. For Argentina, it will be their third appearance in a World Cup final in twelve years, as they chase a fourth overall title and a second consecutive triumph to further solidify their dominance in recent tournaments. Spain, meanwhile, will be eyeing their second World Cup crown, hoping to cap off an impressive campaign under de la Fuente.

Whatever the result, the final promises to deliver a dramatic conclusion to a World Cup that has already provided plenty of memorable moments, as two footballing giants battle for the sport’s most coveted trophy.