Crvena Zvezda Faces Potential Match Postponement Due to Hungary's Energy Crisis

Belgrade club Crvena zvezda could face unexpected complications ahead of their Champions League qualifier against Hapoel Beer Sheva. The potential problem isn't on the field but is linked to Hungary's energy conservation efforts.

Hungary has implemented special measures to reduce electricity consumption due to extremely low water levels in the Danube River. This situation is affecting the Paks nuclear power plant, which is operating at reduced capacity because of insufficient cooling water. Consequently, the Hungarian Football Federation has issued new guidelines for matches.

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On the basis of the Football Association's decision, from Saturday, August 1, 2026, until further notice, all matches of the first, second, and third leagues will start at times that significantly reduce energy consumption, with a special emphasis on avoiding the use of floodlights. The latest time a match can start without artificial lighting is 5:30 PM.

As of August 1, 2026, all league matches must start at times that minimize energy use, with a strong emphasis on avoiding floodlights. The latest possible kickoff without artificial lighting is 5:30 PM. If a match cannot be scheduled within this timeframe or avoid using floodlights, it may be postponed.

Hapoel Beer Sheva, Crvena zvezda's opponent, plays its European home games in Szombathely, Hungary. The scheduled kickoff for their match is 7:30 PM, raising the possibility that the new rules could apply. While no official confirmation of a postponement or rescheduling has been made, the late start time leaves the fixture vulnerable to these energy-saving regulations.

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In the current situation, all participants in society must take responsibility for reducing energy consumption.