World Cup Semifinals Kickoff Amid Fan Outrage Over U.S. Start Times

The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals are scheduled to kick off tomorrow, but the chosen start times have ignited anger among American fans. Matches between France and Spain in Dallas, and England and Argentina in Atlanta, are set for 3 p.m. local time. This timing falls squarely within typical work hours for many in the United States, causing significant dissatisfaction.

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The game is scheduled at 3 p.m. during working hours, which is inconvenient.

For European powerhouses like France and England, the 3 p.m. start in the U.S. translates to a favorable 8 or 9 p.m. prime time slot in their home countries. However, this convenience does not extend to Argentinian fans or the broader American audience, who face considerable inconvenience.

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We are playing in our own country, but we can't watch the game at the best time.

Some U.S. fans have voiced their frustration, with one calling the 3 p.m. start inconvenient. Others expressed dismay at not being able to watch a World Cup match hosted in their own country during optimal viewing hours. Concerns have also been raised about the potential risk of heatstroke, as Dallas is expected to exceed 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).

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An early start may cause heatstroke risk, with temperatures in Dallas expected to exceed 30 degrees Celsius.

Conversely, some supporters argue that the afternoon start times are not problematic. They suggest that starting at 3 p.m. could help fans avoid traffic congestion on their way to the stadium. Additionally, they believe this timing is the best compromise for European viewers, effectively serving as a "golden hour" for that audience.

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Starting at 3 p.m. helps fans avoid traffic congestion on the way to the stadium.