Overview
- FIFA’s released match calendar places 53 of 104 World Cup games in Germany’s nighttime hours, including 43 in the group stage, with kickoffs ranging from midnight to 6 a.m. CET.
- The late slots are driven by heat mitigation after player-union complaints and to hit major TV markets’ primetime, with many open-air venues avoiding daytime games.
- Germany benefits from favorable times with group matches at 19:00 and 22:00 CET in Houston, Toronto and New York, while Austria faces 06:00 and 04:00 local viewing starts for two group games.
- FIFA defended Gianni Infantino’s Washington ceremony conduct by stressing the need for close ties to host authorities, citing long-standing relationships and a White House World Cup task force.
- DFB president Bernd Neuendorf offered restrained criticism of the showy draw and said Germany will keep the focus on sporting matters as commentary about the event’s spectacle continues.